Prince Harry Playfully Receives ‘Inappropriate’ Gift from Team Australia at Invictus Games
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Prince Harry recently shared a light-hearted moment with Team Australia at the Invictus Games in Vancouver, continuing a fun tradition between the prince and the spirited squad. In a video posted on Meghan Markle’s Instagram Stories, Harry can be seen reacting to a very cheeky gift from the team – a Speedo, known in Australia as “budgie smugglers.”
The Duchess of Sussex, 43, playfully wrote, “And Team Australia, you’ve done it again!” alongside the video, capturing the amusing exchange. Upon receiving the tiny swimsuit, the Duke of Sussex, 40, couldn’t suppress his laughter, exclaiming, “So inappropriate! I love it. Thank you so much.”
This amusing gesture harked back to a previous encounter at the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney when an Australian athlete jokingly asked for Harry’s autograph on a pair of Speedos. At that time, Harry humorously responded that he would sign them only if the athlete wore them on his head, in line with royal protocol that prohibits signing personal items.
This year, Team Australia made sure Harry had his own souvenir by gifting him a fresh pair of Speedos, continuing the tradition of fun and camaraderie at the Invictus Games. The games, established by Prince Harry in 2014, honour the resilience and determination of wounded and recovering service members from around the world, featuring sports like wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and indoor rowing.
The Vancouver-Whistler Games mark a special occasion as they are the first to include winter sports such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, curling, and skeleton. The current cycle in Canada is also the first time the sports tournament has returned to a previous host country, following events in London (2014), Orlando (2016), Toronto (2017), Sydney (2018), the Hague (2022 due to COVID-19 delays), and Düsseldorf (2023).
During the opening ceremony on February 8, Prince Harry delivered a moving speech, acknowledging the athletes’ strength and perseverance, stating, “You saved yourself.” He emphasised that the Invictus Games reveal the inner character, fortitude, and spirit of the participants and described these qualities as the magic of the games.
As the games progress, Prince Harry’s involvement and support continue to inspire both participants and spectators, celebrating the remarkable achievements of the competitors. The exchange between Team Australia and Prince Harry adds a touch of humour and camaraderie to the event, showcasing the bond and goodwill that define the spirit of the Invictus Games.
Through these light-hearted moments and poignant speeches, Prince Harry and the participants at the Invictus Games exemplify courage, determination, and resilience, inspiring audiences worldwide. The Invictus Games serve as a platform to honour and celebrate the indomitable human spirit, highlighting the transformative power of sports in fostering community, camaraderie, and hope.
In conclusion, the playful interaction between Prince Harry and Team Australia at the Invictus Games underscores the importance of camaraderie, humour, and compassion in overcoming challenges and celebrating shared accomplishments. As the events unfold in Vancouver, the spirit of unity and strength embodied by the participants continues to illuminate the true essence of the Invictus Games, leaving a legacy of inspiration and goodwill for years to come.