The Duke and Duchess of Sussex participated in a lighthearted penalty shootout during their humanitarian visit to a refugee camp in Jordan, with Meghan emerging victorious after her successful strike.
Football Fun at Za'atari Refugee Camp
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle traveled north of Jordan's capital Amman to the extensive Za'atari Refugee Camp, home to tens of thousands of displaced Syrians. The royal couple joined young Syrian girls for an outdoor football class at a youth center operated by the social development organization Questscope.
Penalty Shootout Showdown
During the sporting activity, Meghan demonstrated her football skills with a right-footed penalty that successfully beat the young goalkeeper. The Duchess appeared triumphant, throwing her hands in the air to celebrate her goal. Meanwhile, Prince Harry's attempt was saved by the same young goalkeeper, giving Meghan clear bragging rights in their friendly competition.
The Sussexes are undertaking a two-day visit to Jordan to better understand humanitarian efforts by Jordanian authorities and various agencies supporting the health and wellbeing of Syrian and Palestinian refugees who have sought sanctuary in the country over many decades.
Engaging with Young Refugees
Before the football session, Meghan crouched down to speak with a seven-year-old girl through an interpreter, asking about her age. When a Questscope staff member asked the child "You know Meghan?" the young girl confidently walked away, prompting the Duchess to remark with a smile: "So sweet, so confident – that's what you're instilling."
The couple seemed eager to participate in the football drills, with Meghan practicing passing before joining Harry for shooting practice where she ultimately triumphed.
Cultural Activities and Conversations
Beyond the football pitch, Harry and Meghan visited several classrooms within the youth center. They observed teenage girls playing traditional Arabic instruments and watched additional musicians performing with violins and guitars.
Although most conversations required interpretation, 15-year-old Siham – a refugee who arrived in Jordan at age two – impressed the royal visitors by answering Harry's question about making friends through music lessons in perfect English. The teenager further surprised the couple by revealing she holds a black belt in taekwondo.
Jordan's Refugee History
Jordan has experienced multiple waves of refugees throughout its history, beginning with Palestinians more than eighty years ago who now number approximately 2.5 million. More recently, Syrians have fled conflict in their homeland, which until recently was ruled by President Bashar al-Assad.
The latest influx of displaced people entered Jordan following the Israeli government's military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, which was itself precipitated by Hamas atrocities against Israeli civilians during the October 7 attacks.
Supporting Mental Health Through Activities
Questscope's youth center provides numerous activities including art and photography classes, music instruction, and sports programs designed to engage young refugees and help alleviate mental health challenges. Families at Za'atari Refugee Camp live in semi-permanent homes with limited shopping facilities available.
The royal visit highlighted the ongoing humanitarian efforts supporting refugees who have sought safety in Jordan over multiple generations, while also showcasing the resilience and talents of young people living in challenging circumstances.
