Just when it felt like the stars were aligning for the Sussexes, with exciting new projects and the prospect of a royal reunion, there came another huge blow. While fans held out hope for the Sussexes to mend their fractured ties with the rest of their family, Prince Harry is watching a big piece of what he considered his family fade away. The Duke of Sussex, who has been nurturing Invictus like his own flesh and blood since 2014, seems to be witnessing its support slipping through his fingers.

While there are plenty of factors at play, it seems Meghan Markle may have greatly impacted this unfortunate turn of events as well. 

The Duke of Sussex's vision for the Invictus Games was to provide support for wounded war veterans in overcoming their traumas and building a sense of camaraderie. However, as per the veterans, lately, the event has become more about PR and less about "its original meaning". Recently, royal author Tom Quinn told The Mirror that Harry has "broken all the unwritten rules" from his army days and hinted that Meghan Markle's involvement has also been distancing Invictus participants.

Quinn pointed out that the Prince's "new Meghan-inspired desire" to be transparent about every aspect of his life could result in "a certain amount of hostility at the Games". Over the years, Meghan Markle has joined her husband at various Invictus Games, leading some to view the event as "too royal". Despite significant calls for the Duke to distance himself from Invictus, a PR expert does not believe that is likely to happen.

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Ryan McCormick recently explained why he doubts Prince Harry has any plans to step down from his role at the charity.

PR guru Ryan McCormick does not think Prince Harry will be bothered by the criticism he is receiving from his Invictus family. In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, McCormick highlighted that since the 39-year-old "had no qualms" about being celebrated as a Legend of Aviation, he is unlikely to pay much attention to calls for him to step down from the Invictus Games either. However, McCormick did suggest that resigning from his role could potentially benefit Prince Harry from a PR standpoint.

“It could be a sizable boost of positive PR”, explained McCormick. As the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games approaches, the Duke of Sussex is preparing for a visit to the UK to celebrate. Though Meghan Markle may not be joining her husband for the occasion, it seems she will not step back from her involvement with Invictus either, especially given the upcoming trip to Nigeria regarding the Invictus Games. 

No Meghan Markle or Senior Royals, Prince Harry Set to Take on Invictus Games Alone in the UK Next Month

What do you think about this setback for Prince Harry? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!