Prince Harry Fights Back Tears During Emotional Moment at Invictus Games Closing Ceremony

Mar. 15, 2025

The Duke of Sussex attending the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games, at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada. Picture date: Sunday February 16, 2025

Aaron Chown/PA Images via Getty

Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau attending the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games, at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada. Picture date: Sunday February 16, 2025

“You have changed the lives of so many people for the better and for that we all owe you the deepest debt of gratitude. Thank you,” he said.

The Duke of Sussex took in the tribute with emotion as the crowd stood on their feet and cheered, fighting back tears and throwing a thumbs-up.

The competition ran in Vancouver and Whistler, Canada from Feb. 8 to Feb. 16, and the Canadian prime minister hit the stage towards the start of the Closing Ceremony to congratulate athletes.

The Duke of Sussex sits with Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau as they watch the Indoor Rowing at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC) during the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.

“It’s about not letting an injury, whether it be physical or mental, define who you are or what you can accomplish. It’s about inspiring your fellow veterans, your fellow compatriots who have or are putting their lives on the line to defend our values, our liberty, our freedom; it’s about all of you. Each and every one of you is an inspiration.”

Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau attending the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games, at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada. Picture date: Sunday February 16, 2025

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source: people.com