The Duke of Sussex’s appearance at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games was completely different from his opening speech demeanor according to a body language expert, who suggested that it was because of his wife’s absence.

The 2025 Invictus Games concluded on February 16 in Vancouver after nine days of inspiring competition, with Prince Harry delivering a powerful and emotional speech during the closing event at Rogers Arena.

As he stood on stage, his heartfelt words and expressions provided insight into his state of mind, sparking discussions about how his performance differed without Meghan Markle’s presence.

A body language expert noted a significant shift in his delivery, claiming the royal was more vulnerable and open, contrasting with his controlled attitude at the opening ceremony.

An Emotional Farewell at the Invictus Games

The 2025 Invictus Games concluded with a grand finale at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena, attended by 12,000 people. Prince Harry took to the stage to celebrate the athletes, their families, and the sacrifices made by service members.

He expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported the competitors, “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.

A Different Side Emerges

Body language expert Judi James noted a significant difference between Harry’s closing address and his earlier performance at the opening ceremony. She attributed this shift to his Markle’s absence, stating that Prince Harry appeared more candid and unguarded without his wife watching from 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.

The expert also said that Harry’s gestures, facial expressions, and speaking style projected an “alpha male” presence. He was seen pacing the stage with forceful strides and “lighthouse” gazes directed at the crowd. However, during his closing remarks, he adopted a different approach.

A Shift from Leadership to Vulnerability

James pointed out that while Prince Harry initially carried himself with the authoritative presence of a military leader, his closing speech showcased a 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.

The Impact of Markle’s Absence

James theorized that Prince Harry might feel less pressure to perform perfectly without his wife in attendance. She explained that 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.

While the Duchess of Sussex, was in California caring for their children, 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.

The Praise for Prince Harry

During the closing ceremony, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took the stage to honor the athletes and took a moment to personally commend 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, and another body language expert joined the conversation. Darren Stanton analyzed his demeanor, 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 at this particular event 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.

However, the British royal’s subsequent thumbs-up to the audience, the expert explained, was a way of expressing thanks for their support, but it could also be interpreted as Prince Harry being “too emotional to respond with words.”

Markle’s Presence at the Opening Ceremony

The Duchess of Sussex was not present for the closing ceremony, but her enthusiastic support at the opening event on February 8 drew significant attention, not only because of her husband’s more formal attitude but also due to the remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Her body language at the time appeared to counteract recent criticism from the nation’s leader, who had disparaged her relationship with Prince Harry.

James offered her perspective on this moment as well, 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 intro speech for Prince Harry, Meghan Markle displayed an “Oh gosh delivery,” with 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.