
Loud cheers erupted in Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium as the cameras focused on a beaming Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the opening ceremony of this year’s Invictus Games. A body language expert has now analyzed their interactions, highlighting Meghan’s intriguing “seal claps” and other revealing gestures.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex attended the star-studded ceremony, which featured performances by Katy Perry, Nelly Furtado, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin. The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry in 2014, is a cause deeply personal to him, championing wounded, injured, and sick service personnel. Meghan, 43, radiated pride as she cheered for her husband, dancing along with the audience and celebrating his passion for the event.
Meghan as Harry’s Biggest Supporter
Body language expert Judi James shared insights with The Mirror, pointing out how Meghan’s actions reflected her role as Harry’s ultimate cheerleader.
“When Meghan picked up two big blue pom-poms and waved them above her head, it was a fitting, symbolic gesture,” Judi explained. “Her body language throughout the Games has clearly positioned her as Harry’s number one fan, directing the crowd’s energy and affection toward him.”
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Judi also noted Meghan’s efforts to build anticipation around Harry’s presence, referencing her speech in which she told the audience, “You will see him throughout the week, you will see him at the Games.” Her affectionate gestures further emphasized her admiration, from clinging to Harry’s arm in excitement to gazing at him with pride as he was mentioned on stage.
According to Judi, Meghan’s gestures were almost maternal at times. While Harry sat with a bashful smile or playfully gave a double thumbs-up during Chris Martin’s banter, Meghan responded with puckered smiles of pride and enthusiastic “seal claps”—a style of clapping with palms facing upward, signaling recognition and praise.