Body Language Expert Reveals How Prince Harry Felt Without Meghan Markle's Intimidating 'Pressure' at the Invictus Games

The Duke of Sussex's demeanor at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games sharply contrasted with his opening speech, according to a body language expert, who attributed the change to his wife's absence.

The 2025 Invictus Games concluded at Vancouver's Rogers Arena on February 16, with 12,000 people in attendance. After nine days of inspiring competition, Prince Harry took to the stage during the closing ceremony and delivered a powerful and emotional speech.

In his closing address, the Duke of Sussex celebrated the athletes, their families, and the sacrifices made by service members. Expressing his gratitude to everyone who supported the competitors, he stated, "To our Invictus wives, husbands, girlfriends, boyfriends, kids, grandparents, and friends, please stand and be recognized—we salute you." He also paid tribute to those who had been lost in service.

Standing on stage, Prince Harry's heartfelt words and expressions offered a glimpse into his state of mind, sparking discussions about how his delivery changed in Meghan Markle's absence.

Body language expert Judi James noted that he appeared more vulnerable and open—a stark contrast to his composed demeanor at the opening ceremony—attributing this candor to performing without his wife in the audience.

"Meghan is a formidably strong and confident speaker, and this could easily be intimidating for Harry, who must in the past have felt pressure to match her performances," James explained. "It's always easier to get out on stage after another speaker's weak or stumbling performance but that's never going to be an option for Harry when Meghan's in town."

According to James, during Prince Harry's opening speech, his gestures, facial expressions, and speaking style projected an "alpha male" presence. He would pace the stage with forceful strides and "lighthouse" gazes directed at the crowd.

"It was almost as though Harry felt a need to depict strong leadership and a rather fierce, less emotional speaking style," she added. However, during his closing remarks, he adopted a different approach.

James pointed out that while Prince Harry previously carried himself with the authoritative presence of a military leader, his closing speech showcased his more reflective and emotionally expressive side.

She noted that even though his words were strong, the Duke of Sussex sometimes looked "stricken." There were also moments when his smile disappeared quickly while lowering his microphone, and his tongue made a "lizard tongue" motion, which can be an indication of trying to contain his feelings.

"His rapid blink rate or eyelid stutter also suggested emotional imput [sic] and there was one pause when he might have just missed the line on auto-cue, but which suggested also that he was close to tears," the expert added.

James theorized that Prince Harry might feel less pressure to perform perfectly without his wife in attendance. Many find it difficult to deliver a speech or complete a task with a close partner or parent present, as their reactions and evaluations can become a primary focus.

A second body language expert analyzed another important moment during the closing ceremony. When Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took the stage to honor the athletes, he personally commended the British royal.

Speaking directly to Prince Harry, Trudeau said he had "changed the lives of so many people for the better, and for that, we all owe you the deepest debt of gratitude."

Observers noted that the Duke of Sussex appeared deeply touched by the remark, with body language expert Darren Stanton describing it as "genuine emotion."

"It's clear from his reaction he was really on the verge of tears," Stanton explained. "If you look closely, he puts his tongue into his cheek. This is something people do when they want to hold back the tears."

Prince Harry's behavior differed from his more assertive presence earlier in the Invictus Games. He remained seated during a standing ovation, a gesture Stanton interpreted as demonstrating humility and emotional vulnerability.

He also noted the British royal's stoicism while seated. While his subsequent thumbs-up to the audience was a way of expressing thanks for their support, it could also be interpreted as Prince Harry being "too emotional to respond with words."

While the Duchess of Sussex was in California caring for their children during the closing ceremony, she publicly showed her support for Prince Harry and the Invictus Games via Instagram.

In one of her posts, she expressed her love and admiration for her husband, highlighting his work with veterans and the positive impact of the event. Markle also said she missed him on Valentine's Day.

However, her enthusiastic attitude at the February 8 opening event drew significant attention—not only due to her husband's more formal demeanor but also because of comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Her body language seemed to directly counter recent criticism from the president, who had disparaged her relationship with Prince Harry around that time.

James offered her perspective on this moment, observing that Markle appeared eager to show her affection and support for her husband. She described the Duchess of Sussex's actions as a strong display of connection and admiration as if she was signaling, "Hold my coat."

During her introduction for Prince Harry, Meghan Markle delivered an "Oh gosh" performance, using mannerisms like eye rolls, breathless sighs, hair tossing, and "whispering to suggest barely-contained emotions."

Her other reactions during the event, including expressions of delight and open affection towards Prince Harry, were seen as a conscious effort to highlight their close relationship. James noted that she physically connected with him, leaning in and holding his hand in a way that suggested "ownership."

Despite varying interpretations of body language, the 2025 Invictus Games highlighted the Duke of Sussex's continued leadership, regardless of his wife's presence.

With the next Invictus Games set for Birmingham in 2027, all eyes will be on how Prince Harry continues to evolve in his role as a public speaker and an advocate for wounded veterans.