Prince Harry Attends Invictus Gala Solo in London
The Duke of Sussex made his first public appearance since returning to the UK, attending an awards dinner without his wife, Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry attended the Invictus Spirit Gala Dinner & Awards at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London, on Thursday evening. This marked his first official outing since his and Meghan Markle's return to the United Kingdom.
The Duke of Sussex was seen wearing a black tuxedo with his military medals displayed, including the Royal Victorian Order medal around his neck. He appeared in good spirits, taking selfies with attendees and was photographed entering the event with two former Invictus competitors.
This appearance comes shortly after Harry and Markle relocated to the UK with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, six years after stepping down from royal duties. The couple's return to the UK has been met with a complex reception from the royal family, with King Charles III issuing a statement clarifying their status as "private citizens." This clarification reportedly led to friction, with Harry and Markle viewing themselves as "public figures."
Amidst these familial tensions, the couple also faced challenges with their children's enrollment in a new school. Concerns over security due to heavy traffic led to them withdrawing their children shortly after the school term began. Additionally, Markle's personal mobile number was reportedly leaked in a school-related WhatsApp group.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry's brother, Prince William, and his wife, Kate Middleton, are reportedly estranged from Harry and Markle, with sources indicating William has "washed his hands" of his younger brother due to past public statements.