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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Invictus Games Body Language Showcased Their ‘Deep Connection’ — Expert

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry kicked off the Invictus Games on April 16, 2022, and, according to body language expert Darren Stanton, their "deep connection" was on full display thanks to mirrored and matching movements and genuine smiles.

TL;DR: 

  • Prince Harry and Meghan Markle kicked off the Invictus Games together.
  • Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Invictus Games body language included copying many of each other’s expressions and hand gestures. 
  • According to an expert, both had “genuine” smiles upon their arrival in The Hague, Netherlands.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry smile at the 2022 Invictus Games
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were in The Hague, Netherlands, for the Invictus Games. Acording to a body language expert, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s “deep connection” was clear from the outset. 

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attended the Invictus Games together

The Duke of Sussex didn’t arrive at the Invictus Games by himself. He showed up with Meghan by his side (and a camera crew in tow). The games, which officially began on April 16, 2022, had Harry and Meghan cheering on competitors. 

The couple, who made their first public appearance together at the games in 2017, watched the Jaguar Land Rover Driving Challenge. Meghan introduced Harry at the opening ceremony, referring to him as her “incredible husband.” The two even shared a kiss onstage. 

During the weekend, Harry also shared Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor’s career aspirations. Spoiler alert: the 2-year-old wants to be a helicopter pilot like his father. 

Harry and Meghan’s Invictus Games appearance marks the second time they’ve stepped out for a major event together this year. February 2022 marked the first when they were honored at the NAACP Image Awards.

Harry and Meghan mirrored many of each other’s movements

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle smile as they arrive at the Invictus Games in The Hague, Netherlands
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle | Karwai Tang/WireImage

An expert dissected Harry and Meghan’s Invictus Games body language. Body language expert Darren Stanton told Betfair Casino per The Sun the games were an enjoyable time for the parents of two. 

“On his arrival to the Invictus Games, Prince Harry’s happiness was undeniable,” he said. Harry gave a “genuine smile” while he and Meghan talked to one of the event’s organizers. “His whole face was engaged and his crow’s feet visible,” Stanton added, saying they’re “signs that signify genuine enjoyment.”

Harry wasn’t the only one with a smile on his. The Duchess of Sussex was grinning too. According to Stanton, Harry and Meghan’s Invictus Games body language pointed toward their “deep connection.” 

“The pair were visibly in such a rapport with one another, at times matching and mirroring each other’s movements and hand positions,” he said, calling it “a telling sign of a deep connection with one another.”

Body language expert says Meghan stepped back to let the attention be on Harry

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry watch the Land Rover Challenge at the Invictus Games
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry | Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images
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Harry founded the Invictus Games years after the military gave him an escape from royal life. Postponed because of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Invictus Games allowed him to bring together veterans from all over the world.

As Stanton explained, Meghan took a step back upon her and Harry’s arrival at the games in The Hague to let Harry have the spotlight. While the Duke of Sussex, 37, walked past a crowd, his relaxed body language indicated he enjoyed being the center of attention. 

The Invictus Games conclude on April 22, 2022. Seeing as Harry’s the founder of the games, it’s very likely he’ll make more appearances before the close of the competition. However, Meghan probably won’t be there, save for a surprise appearance. Why? Because, as a spokesperson told Town & Country and other outlets in the lead-up to the games, she planned on attending only the first few days.