Following his recent return from the UK, where he testified against Mirror Group Newspapers, Prince Harry made an unexpected visit to the U.S. Army Recovery Care Program’s Warrior Games in San Diego, California. The Duke of Sussex spent time with athletes and their families during the adaptive sports competition and watched the Sitting Volleyball Finals, making the final day of the games “extra special,” according to the Army.

A veteran of the British army himself, Harry has previously credited the Warrior Games as the inspiration for the Invictus Games, an international adaptive sports competition he founded in 2014. This year's Invictus Games are slated to take place in Germany in September. Reflecting on the impact of the Warrior Games, Harry previously stated (according to People magazine) that the concept was so compelling it had to be adopted on a larger scale, hence his desire to establish a similar event with a broader international reach.

Harry has explained that his 2013 visit to the Warrior Games was a pivotal moment, showcasing the power of sports in recovery and demonstrating a life beyond disability. He witnessed firsthand how sport could inspire recovery and open up new possibilities for individuals with disabilities. The Invictus Games, following a similar model, provides a platform for wounded and ill service members from around the globe to compete.

This year’s Warrior Games were held at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego from June 2nd to 12th. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reside with their two children in Montecito, California, several hours north of San Diego, having relocated to the U.S. after stepping back from their roles as senior royals in 2020.