Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Enjoy Volleyball Together in Nigeria

Meghan Markle speaks on Prince Harry's love of volleyball at Invictus Games in Nigeria

KOLA SULAIMON/AFP via Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle embraced the spirit of the Invictus Games during their second day in Nigeria. Harry was so captivated by a volleyball exhibition that he decided to join in on the fun.

The royal couple, aged 39 and 42 respectively, were invited to observe a training session for sitting volleyball organized by Nigeria: Unconquered. This charity is associated with the competition for wounded soldiers that Harry established in 2014. They attended the session at the invitation of Nigeria's Chief of Defense Staff, Christopher Muse.

They arrived at the Defense Headquarters Officers’ Mess in Nigeria’s capital city Abuja and were given green-and-white scarves to symbolize the Nigerian flag. Markle and Harry observed Nigeria’s competitors practice before Harry was asked to join in and play against them. The exhibition featured two teams: Team CDS and Team Harry, with the audience cheering on the Duke of Sussex.

Markle shared that Harry has always been a fan of the American-born sport, mentioning to a 9-year-old girl present that the prince is skilled on the court.

Tiwa Akanbi shared with People that Prince Harry enjoys playing volleyball and is talented at it. She also asked if Tiwa plays volleyball at her school, to which Tiwa confirmed that she does.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are currently on their inaugural trip to Nigeria. They began their three-day visit by visiting a school in the capital city, as part of the celebration for the 10th anniversary of Harry's Invictus Games.

Meghan Markle speaks on Prince Harry's love of volleyball at Invictus Games in Nigeria

Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for The Archewell Foundation

The trip has sparked rumors about Harry's relationship with his father, King Charles III. Even though Harry was in London for an Invictus celebration recently, Charles was not present, and Harry was not able to visit him.

A spokesperson for Harry addressed the speculation about whether the Duke would meet with his father during his visit to the UK this week. The representative explained that it would not be possible due to King Charles III's busy schedule.

Harry and Charles, 75, have had a strained relationship ever since Harry decided to step away from his royal duties and move to the United States. Their estrangement worsened after the release of Harry's 2023 memoir, Spare. However, following Charles' cancer diagnosis, Harry has reportedly been working on repairing their relationship.

In response to his father's health news, Harry quickly flew from California to London to be by Charles' side. In a recent interview on Good Morning America, Harry expressed his love for his family and gratitude for being able to spend time with his dad. He mentioned that being able to visit Charles meant a lot to him.

Princess Kate Middleton has been diagnosed with cancer, causing tension between Prince Harry and his brother Prince William. Despite this, Meghan Markle has tried to ease the situation by being understanding of William's tough time. An insider shared that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are being careful not to add more stress to the already difficult situation.

Editor's P/S:

The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry in 2014, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to supporting wounded soldiers. The spirited atmosphere of the volleyball exhibition in Nigeria showcased the resilience and camaraderie that defines this remarkable competition. Harry's enthusiastic participation further underscores his passion for the event and his deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.

However, the article also hints at the ongoing tensions within the royal family. Harry's absence from his father's recent Invictus celebration and his inability to visit him during his trip to the UK suggest a lingering estrangement. Despite the reported efforts to mend their relationship, it remains to be seen whether Harry and King Charles III can fully reconcile. The situation is further complicated by Princess Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis, which has strained the relationship between Harry and his brother Prince William. While Meghan Markle's understanding and support have helped ease some of the tension, the future of the royal family remains uncertain.