Meghan Markle Returns Home to California from the Invictus Games — Why She Headed Back Early

Meghan Markle Leaves Invictus Games in Canada Early, Prince Harry to Stay

Meghan Markle has returned to California ahead of schedule after attending the 2025 Invictus Games in Canada with her husband Prince Harry. The Duchess of Sussex left early to be with their two children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3, as per their planned arrangement. Meanwhile, Prince Harry will remain in Vancouver and Whistler for the duration of the Invictus Games, which are set to run until February 16. Established by the Duke of Sussex in 2014, the Invictus Games is an adaptive sporting event for sick, injured, and wounded service personnel and veterans, with Prince Harry also serving as the patron of the Invictus Games Foundation.

Upon her return to California, Meghan is bringing back custom jerseys from Team Nigeria as souvenirs for her children. Derrick Cobbinah, the Nigerian team manager, shared with PEOPLE that Meghan was thrilled about the jerseys and that they had made special ones for Prince Harry and the kids. The royal couple had attended the Invictus Games together, making their first appearance at a welcome reception on February 7. During the event, Meghan affectionately introduced her husband and shared a personal anecdote involving their children, highlighting the significance of the games to Prince Harry.

Prince Harry had expressed excitement about bringing their children to the Invictus Games, previously mentioning that he had introduced the competition to their son Archie. He shared that showing Archie videos of the games in Sydney had a profound impact on him, helping him understand and appreciate the challenges faced by the participants. This year, while discussing the games with Prince Archie, Prince Harry also found himself reflecting on his late mother, Princess Diana, and her humanitarian work.

Although Prince Harry and Meghan won’t be together for Valentine’s Day, they recently enjoyed a double date with Michael Bublé and his wife in Whistler. Meghan was spotted wearing diamond earrings reportedly gifted by Prince Harry on a previous Valentine’s Day. Their time together at the Invictus Games showcased their shared commitment to supporting veterans and individuals with disabilities through sports.

The Invictus Games hold a special place in Prince Harry’s heart, as he continues to honour his mother’s legacy while creating his own philanthropic initiatives. The event serves as a platform for showcasing resilience, courage, and camaraderie amongst participants, with Prince Harry playing a pivotal role in its success. Meghan’s presence at the games further underlines the couple’s dedication to causes close to their hearts.

As Meghan Markle returns home to California, she carries with her not just memories of the Invictus Games but also a sense of pride in her husband’s work and their shared commitment to making a difference in the world. The royal couple’s public appearances and engagements reflect their unity in supporting noble causes and using their platform to bring attention to important issues. The Invictus Games may end soon, but its impact on participants and supporters alike will continue to inspire and uplift individuals around the world.