In brief
Prince Harry champions support for wounded veterans at the Invictus Games' opening ceremony, amidst political buzz surrounding the couple.
The Duke of Sussex graced Vancouver on Saturday alongside the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, to inaugurate the latest edition of the Invictus Games, a remarkable event dedicated to wounded military veterans. During the spirited opening ceremony, attended by approximately 40,000 spectators, Prince Harry urged participants to rise above the current global atmosphere of "difficulty and division." Cheerfully supporting the UK team from their seats, Harry and Meghan clapped as the athletes paraded onto the stage. This celebratory event came just hours after US President Donald Trump commented on the couple, asserting, "I'll leave him alone" when asked about potential actions against Prince Harry’s residency. Trump went further, remarking on Meghan's character, prompting speculation about the couple’s visa status following Prince Harry’s admissions of past drug use in his memoir, Spare. The Prince founded the Invictus Games following his experience at the 2013 Warrior Games in the United States. This year marks the Games' seventh iteration, featuring over 500 athletes from various nations competing in 11 events, including the introduction of winter sports. The opening ceremony showcased performances by music icons such as Katy Perry, Chris Martin, and Nelly Furtado, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere of the day. "We gather here in Vancouver in a spirit of unity," declared Prince Harry, emphasizing the shared respect and camaraderie among competitors. He expressed admiration for the resilience shown by participants, stating, "Over the past decade I've lost count of the times we've heard you tell us that the Invictus Games saved you. Respectfully, I disagree. Invictus didn't save you. You saved yourself." Earlier, responding to inquiries about deporting Prince Harry due to his immigration status, Trump affirmed he had no intentions of such actions, despite hints from conservative groups questioning the Duke's visa legitimacy. The outspoken former actress, Meghan, has previously criticized Trump as "divisive" and "misogynistic," causing a palpable tension between the two figures. The Invictus Games remain a passion project for Prince Harry, who has witnessed the transformative effect they offer participants and their families, an endeavor born from his commitment to honor and support veterans globally. As the couple actively engages in public service and charitable actions, this latest appearance underscores their continual advocacy for those who have served.


