Prince Harry Is Clearly Having the Best Time at the 2023 Invictus Games

Getty / ODD ANDERSEN

Prince Harry’s 2023 Invictus Games are in full swing, and he’s clearly making the most of his time in Germany. The Duke of Sussex officially kicked off the seven-day Paralympic-style competition for wounded and recovering soldiers and veterans on Sept. 9 with an opening ceremony in Düsseldorf.

“This year’s games is a home for respect,” Harry said in a speech, as seen in a video shared by “ET Canada.” “Think about that word for a second, ‘respect.’ What does it mean to you? What does it look like? What does it feel like? Some people may act like respect is something that veterans are asking for, that people with injuries – whether visible or invisible – have to demonstrate they’re worthy of it. Some of you here may sometimes feel that way about yourselves. That you have something to prove.”

Harry continued, “These games are not solely about medals . . . They are about overcoming any and all perceptions that held you back, especially those you’ve placed on yourselves.”

On Sunday, Sept. 10, the prince attended the first day of events, where he watched the wheelchair rugby, powerlifting, and track and field competitions. The following day, Harry was back in the stands for the track and field finals. During his visit, the duke caught up with Wali Noori of Team UK, who was blinded by a Taliban bomb in 2009.

The 2023 Invictus Games will wrap on Saturday, Sept. 16, and the closing ceremony will include a special performance by Rita Ora. “I am incredibly proud to be part of the Closing Ceremony of the Invictus Games in Düsseldorf,” Ora said in statement shared on the Invictus Games website. “I am so excited to be performing in front of this very unique audience. The Invictus Games is a very special sport event, and the competitors are an inspiration in perseverance and will for all of us.”

Meghan Markle, Harry’s wife, is also scheduled to attend the closing ceremony, though in what capacity remains unclear.

Ahead, see more photos of Harry’s 2023 Invictus Games.