Prince Harry’s closing speech at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver was a deeply emotional affair, leaving many to wonder about the impact of Meghan Markle’s absence. The Duke of Sussex, visibly moved, paused multiple times to compose himself as he addressed the crowd of 12,000. His powerful words resonated with athletes, veterans, and their families, honoring their sacrifices and resilience. However, the tone of this speech differed significantly from Prince Harry’s opening address, prompting speculation about the reasons for this shift.
Body language expert Judi James suggests that Meghan’s absence might have played a crucial role in Prince Harry’s more vulnerable demeanor. She observed that Prince Harry appeared more candid and emotionally raw than in his previous appearances, particularly those where Meghan was present. James noted that Meghan’s strong and confident speaking style could be intimidating for Prince Harry. Without her presence, he may have felt less pressure to project a certain image and more comfortable expressing his true emotions. Prince Harry’s opening speech, by contrast, was described as more “alpha male,” with a focus on strength and leadership.
Prince Harry’s closing speech paid tribute to the host First Nations, the Invictus athletes, their families, and the service men and women lost in battle or to suicide. He acknowledged the struggles faced by veterans and emphasized the importance of supporting one another. “Service to one another will save us,” Prince Harry declared, highlighting the power of community and shared experience. He acknowledged the world’s ongoing strife and trauma, stating that the Games remain necessary, perhaps now more than ever. He expressed his belief that the athletes have reclaimed what was lost, restored what was broken, and achieved the impossible.
The Duke’s emotional display was particularly poignant given his own experiences and his commitment to supporting veterans. He recently revealed that he undergoes therapy to cope with the emotional weight of hearing heartbreaking stories from veterans participating in the Invictus Games. Prince Harry empathizes with the emotional toll these stories can take, particularly for those who have served in combat. He spoke about the challenges faced by veterans with PTSD and the importance of open conversations about mental health.
Despite being in California, Meghan showed her support for Prince Harry and the Invictus Games. She shared a clip of his emotional speech on Instagram, expressing her pride and admiration. Her message, simple yet powerful, underscored the bond between the couple. Prince Harry’s vulnerability and emotional honesty at the closing ceremony resonated deeply with the audience and viewers alike. His words served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit, particularly in the face of adversity. The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, continue to be a testament to the power of sport to heal and inspire.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
Discover more from Today's Esquire
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.