Prince Harry Opens Up About Why the First Invictus Games Speech He Gave Left Him "Shaking"
Prince Harry revealed that the first-ever Invictus Games in 2014 made him more nervous than any other royal engagement he's had.


- Even though he's been in the spotlight since the day he was born, Prince Harry (opens in new tab) still gets nervous from time-to-time.
- According to The Mirror (opens in new tab), Harry revealed that the one royal engagement that made him really nervous over the years was the first-ever Invictus Games in 2014.
- The royal revealed that, just before he gave his speech at the opening ceremony, he was so nervous he was "shaking."
You might think that growing up in the spotlight like a royal (opens in new tab) would give you some immunity to stage fright and public speaking-related nerves, but you would be wrong.
Prince Harry (opens in new tab) has completed countless royal engagements and appearances over the years, but he recently revealed the one that brought on a total case of nerves: The first-ever Invictus Games in 2014.
Harry explained, per The Mirror (opens in new tab):
"Nerves, nerves, about everything. The whole planning, whether it was going to come together, whether people were going to turn up, whether we were going to fill seats. The weather because the opening ceremony was outdoors and and selfishly I guess, my speech.
"On the actual night we had the podium right in front of all of the competitors and I could just see all of their faces. They started chanting and I was so nervous, I was shaking. I knew I had a certain window to be able to get my words out and we were also running behind so I rushed it and it's probably one of the worst speeches I've ever given."
Luckily, the speech was a huge success, so Harry didn't need to worry after all. Watch it for yourself below:
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
subscribe here (opens in new tab)
RELATED STORIES
Kayleigh Roberts is the weekend editor at Marie Claire, covering celebrity and entertainment news, from actual royals like Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle to Hollywood royalty, like Katie Holmes and Chrissy Teigen. She’s a Ravenclaw who would do great things in Slytherin. To learn more about her, google “Leslie Knope eating salad GIF.
-
The 10 Best Zodiac Necklaces for Repping Your Star Sign
For when I need everyone to know I'm a Leo.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
Did COVID Make Me Lose My Eyelashes?
People are talking about losing the hair on their heads post pandemic, but our experts say COVID may be causing you to lose your eyelashes, too.
By Maria Ricapito
-
The Very Best Memorial Day Fashion Sales of 2022
Time to find a new bathing suit, bag, or wedding guest dress!
By Julia Marzovilla
-
Why the Royals Have to Adhere to Strict Dining Rules, According to an Etiquette Expert
Imagine the infamy of sticking your pinky out when drinking tea, LOL.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Who Is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Fiancé Riley Roberts?
AOC's husband-to-be is an "easygoing redhead" who lives with her in D.C.
By Katherine J Igoe
-
Prince Harry's Ex Chelsy Davy Just Got Married, Reportedly
She and Sam Cutmore-Scott share baby son Leo.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince Harry Is Worried About Archie and Lili Experiencing the "Online Harm" That Is Currently "Normalized"
He says the internet needs to change dramatically.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William Sent a Heartfelt Message to British Soccer Player Who Came Out as Gay
Jake Daniels' decision will make such a huge difference.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Kate Middleton and Prince William Shared Rare PDA in the Bahamas
The footage popped up on TikTok.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
The Queen Touched Up Her Lipstick During Her First Jubilee Appearance
She actually regularly does this in public, which is amazing.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Kate Middleton Helped a Student Find a Crossword Answer Related to the Queen
Wholesome!
By Iris Goldsztajn