The Duke of Sussex tried his hand at pickleball, a debut sport at the Invictus Games, during demonstration matches marking one year until the annual tournament. Harry showcased his racket skills at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, playing alongside This Morning and Great British Bake Off host Alison Hammond, who is from Birmingham, and TV presenter Ade Adepitan, a Paralympic bronze medalist.
Meghan Absent Due to Security Concerns
The Duchess of Sussex was expected to attend but did not fly to the UK with Harry earlier this week because of security concerns. However, Meghan is widely expected to travel with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in the coming days, prompting rumours of a possible meeting between King Charles and his US-based grandchildren.
Invictus Games CEO Highlights Impact
Helen Helliwell, chief executive officer of Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, opened the event, stating: “Invictus has always been more than a week of games. It transforms lives not only for competitors but for their families.” Pickleball, an alternative to tennis, will make its debut when the games are staged in Birmingham next year.
Demonstration Matches and Participants
Harry joined a partner on court to compete against another pair in pickleball. The event also featured demonstrations of other sports, highlighting the tournament's mission to support wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. The Invictus Games were founded by Harry in 2014.
