The couple were elated to attend the seventh edition of the competition for wounded military servicemen and women. The first edition of the game was held in London in 2014.

The short video captures Harry and the Duchess of Sussex smiling and waving at cheering crowds as they ride in a golf buggy. However, what caught many viewers’ attention was how they seemed comfortable taking the ride as they passed by disabled veterans, some of whom were in wheelchairs.

The scene has led to mixed reactions, with some questioning why the couple didn’t choose to walk through the crowd, engaging directly with the veterans.

Another didn’t hold back, calling the couple’s presence at the event unnecessary, “What a tone deaf couple. It was clear the last time around that the Harry and Meghan show completely overshadowed the wounded soldiers and their games yet here we are, version 2.0. Twice as unappealing [sic].”

Someone else questioned their decision to stay seated, “Did they lose the power of their legs. Shameful they couldn’t walk and greet them.” A different commenter sympathized with the veterans, “I feel bad for the Athletes. The two of them are making Invictus look like one big grift.” Other people simply declared, “So inappropriate.”

Another user pointed out how the scene appeared, stating, “The optics of this are hard to believe. They are RIDING past injured veterans. Some in wheelchairs. Waving to them from their cart because H/MM are too important to WALK. And of course they are being filmed. They are such odious people. This epitomizes.”

As the games kicked off, an enthusiastic Meghan Markle took to Instagram to share a clip highlighting veterans competing in various events from past Invictus Games. The footage captured the spirit of determination as it showed athletes pushing their limits in sports like wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and indoor rowing.

Injured veterans were seen giving their all by racing on the track, powering through cycling events, and displaying unwavering focus in archery. Their passion was evident on their faces as they turned each moment into a show of perseverance, while the audience cheered them on.

Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games in 2014 for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. He was inspired to take this bold step when in 2013, Harry attended the US Warrior Games, a sporting event for injured service members.

Seeing how the competition helped in their recovery, he was inspired to create the Invictus Games, which is now a global event celebrating the resilience of wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women.

Deeply moved, he sought ways to support those who had sacrificed so much. Today, the Invictus Games Foundation also provides recovery programs that help participants rediscover purpose and identity beyond their injuries, ensuring they continue to thrive despite their challenges.

The popular games, including swimming, wheelchair curling, and indoor rowing, will see 500 competitors from 23 nations take part in them. Additionally, the event will include winter sports for the first time.

Harry added that it is his “sacred obligation” to support fellow military veterans. The games, which generate respect for those who served their country, have previously been held in London in 2014.