All good things must come to an end, a phrase which certainly rang true at the Invictus Games 2023 Closing Ceremony in Dusseldorf tonight.
I remember when, almost a decade ago, Prince Harry announced his vision for the Invictus Games. At the time, he had served in the British Army for eight years and completed his time as an Apache pilot. He knew exactly how he wanted to cement his role for good. After a life-changing trip to the US where he witnessed the inspiring Warrior Games. He returned to London with a plan. Nine years later, that plan has grown into "a legacy he can be proud of", as UK Minister of State for Veterans' Affairs in the UK put it.
The games this year were undeniably one of the best to date and set a high bar for Canada in 2025.
There was extraordinary cooperation in Germany and a fabulously professional approach. The Invictus Games Foundation, steered by Harry, Dominic Reed and David Wiseman, has reached a point where it's very much a smooth-running vessel with the ability to optimise and grow the games year on year.
The Duke and Duchess with performers Rita Ora and Sam Ryder before the ceremony began.
Applause from the Duke and Duchess during the parade of nations.
Harry and Meghan!!!! pic.twitter.com/4RkjfinCoV
— Dani 💛❤️🖤 (@ArchLiliHazMeg) September 16, 2023
Meghan blew kisses.
Meghan waving and blowing kisses 🥰 pic.twitter.com/ImtRTYcH41
— Dani 💛❤️🖤 (@ArchLiliHazMeg) September 16, 2023
Roaring cheers for Ukraine.
Invictus Games closing ceremony: whole stadium on its feet to welcome Team Ukraine 🇺🇦💪🏻🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/ww2LySzaX7
— Victoria Ward (@victoria_ward) September 16, 2023
Dominic Reid, OBE Chief Executive, Meghan, Harry, Elke Büdenbender and German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
The Invictus Games has been able to achieve something special and that was evident at every single event this week. It's a family.
Reporting from #invictusgames2023 in #düsseldorf last day - the #closingceremony march-in of the nations here #usainvictus with #PrinceHarryandMeghan cheering pic.twitter.com/Rp9htUUt0e
— Alethea Magazine/Alethea Talks (@AletheaMagazine) September 16, 2023
Sam Ryder serenades Meghan.
Not him waiting till Harry was backstage before serenading Meghan😭💀 pic.twitter.com/tzAzF6F9Wl
— Iris 🦆 (@IrisTheeScholar) September 16, 2023
In a rousing speech, German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier spoke directly to Team Ukraine: "This illegal war could be over today if Vladimir Putin withdrew his troops from Ukrainian soil. Together with Ukraine, we hope each day this war will end so that the dying and suffering are no more. Team Ukraine, all of us feel for you and hope you can take something from this special community of the unbeaten back with you."
The President added: "I am very grateful to the Duke of Sussex, as someone who himself has been in combat, for creating the games."
Let's take a look at some of the statistics: 513 competitors from 21 countries competed in 10 different sports across six days of competition. A total of 666 medals in 229 competitions were handed out.
Over 1,000 relatives of the participants made the journey. Over 1,200 volunteers made the event possible, coming from 30 countries. Over 800 journalists were accredited.
21,800 soldiers from all participating countries attended the event. Over 14,000 school children from all over Europe visited. The goal of 100,000 spectators was smashed with over 140,000 in attendance. Over 25 million online visitors.
The Merkur Spiel-Arena was converted into a multi-functional facility in a record eight days. 950 people worked 15,000 hours.
Though the Invictus Games will officially leave Germany tonight, it's legacy will remain. Thanks to the success of the games, Dusseldorf will follow the path of Sydney (2018 Games Host) and launch Invictus Germany. This continued programme will operate similarly to the Warrior Games, allowing German athletes to compete at a national level.
The theme of 'A Home for Respect' will continue to flourish.
The Lord Mayor of Dusseldorf, Stephan Keller, became quite emotional when speaking about the games: "We kept asking ourselves, how we can we keep this spirit going and leave a sustainable legacy of Invictus in Germany?"
The Lord Mayor #drstephankeller was very emotional - he was so impressed by the games and the enthusiasm of the people for the fates of the soldiers that he did not want this to end here and now. A big round of applause followed. Reporting from #InvictusGames2023 pic.twitter.com/WpUF36k73K
— Alethea Magazine/Alethea Talks (@AletheaMagazine) September 16, 2023
Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius has been profoundly touched by the event, saying, "We have reached far beyond the military community with the impact of these games."
This week, we built #AHomeForRespect. Before the #IG23 comes to an end, Germany's Defence Minister Boris Pistorius @BMVg_Bundeswehr will hold a press conference in our Media Centre. pic.twitter.com/AMVUjggRW6
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 16, 2023
Looking ahead, 2024 marks the ten-year anniversary and at a press conference this evening it was confirmed a series of events and activities will mark the occasion. Of course, there was also enormous excitement as the 2025 Games in Vancouver and Whistler were discussed. With the inclusion of winter sports, the games will be around 12 days in duration. Speaking today, Canada's Minister of Veteran Affairs Ginette Petitpas Taylor said: "The games will present a challenge for competitors and make the first test in adaptive winter sports. I have no doubt that it's certainly going to be something to watch."
A beautiful moment as Team Germany Captain Thomas Kroner handed over the team coin to Team Canada Captain Aliana Mundy. A symbol of respect to Canada as they take the mantle forward.
German Team Captain Thomas Kroner 🇩🇪 hands over the team coin to Canada Team Captain Aliana Mundy 🇨🇦 as a symbol of respect and transition to the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. pic.twitter.com/edVXhMeRD0
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 16, 2023
War heralds unimaginable cruelty and brutality. Division in all its worst forms. None feel this more deeply than the heroes of Team Ukraine. Seeing nations come together at Invictus, knowing the devastating situation the team are going home to, offers a time of respite and hope for a better future.
Ontario's Senator Marty Deacon shared: "Councillor Wilson Williams of The Squamish Nation on behalf of Team Canada at the Invictus Games today did a blanket ceremony for a brave Ukrainian medic."
Councillor Wilson Williams of The Squamish Nation on behalf of Team Canada at the Invictus Games today did a blanket ceremony for a brave Ukrainian medic. The Invictus Games provide this international support and friendship. pic.twitter.com/S5np2dm7x2
— Senator Marty Deacon (@SenMartyDeacon) September 16, 2023
Taira stole all of our hearts over the past week. I am in awe of her courage, strength and dignity in the midst of circumstances most of will never understand.
Last year, Taira couldn't take her place at the games as she was held in captivity. She credits the attention Invictus gave her story with being released: "When you prepare yourself for death and then you get out of those horrible cells and then you see all this, it's like a true rebirth." When Invictus was merely a seed in Harry's mind, I doubt he could have envisaged a scenario such as this.
Taira told the Telegraph: "I am very grateful to Prince Harry, because it was after...the Invictus Games that the Russians stopped interrogating and torturing me. I think that spreading the word to the whole world influenced their decision to trade me in a prisoner exchange."
What an honour it was for Harry and Meghan to present Taira with an Archery medal this morning.
Taira's 19-year-old daughter Anna-Sofia Puzanova represented her mother at the games last year. Words cannot convey how much having her back means. Tonight, Anna-Sofia spoke on stage about how proud she of her mother, bringing Taira to tears.
Anna-Sofia then welcomed Harry.
As Harry took to the stage, I knew it was going to be a moving speech. I didn't know it wouldn't leave a dry eye in the arena. "What you have seen and experienced this week is so much more than a sporting event. It is a platform for positive change. The ripple of respect has been felt far and wide, and we hope you too, are feeling it deeply. I'm sure you're all physically exhausted, who wouldn't be, but I also hope you are mentally stronger than when you arrived.
"We may have provided the platform, but you provided the magic. And don't you ever forget that.
"We've all witnessed the impact sport has had on your recovery and on your post-traumatic growth. You will never know the impact your actions this week have had on millions of people around the world. You have opened people's hearts through your vulnerability, resilience and sheer abilities. You have showed us that joy can emerge from struggles and for that we are eternally grateful. You don’t need to rely on a uniform, nor should you feel lost without one. Why? Because everything you need is already within you."
"We value you, we need you, and the world does too."
— Invictus Games Foundation 💛🖤+💜 (@WeAreInvictus) September 16, 2023
Listen to The Duke of Sussex's full speech from the Closing Ceremony of the #InvictusGames Düsseldorf 2023. #WeAreInvictus 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/jnxCwK11kB
Harry then shared a deeply moving story from the week; one which was felt throughout the entire audience. "Yesterday, I met with with Master Corporal James Gendron at the Invictus Games 2025 tent. While we were chatting, I noticed bagpipes lying on the floor in the far corner. Some of you know what bagpipes mean to me, so I couldn't help but hope they would be played." Harry then called out to James in the audience.
#WeLoveYouPrinceHarry#InvictusGamesTeam🌎
— Michaela R (@ynxtj6bnvb) September 16, 2023
I am with you Prince Harry 🙏🇳🇬❤️🥰🙏🇳🇬❤️🥰I definitely 💯 get it Now pic.twitter.com/IcFYSTdMgB
The Prince continued: "Little did I know, 30 minutes later, it would be James picking them up to offer to play. Little did I know what they meant to him, nor did I know what memories they triggered for him. In Afghanistan he played 63 ramp ceremonies. For 63 caskets. For 63 souls. For four years after that last ceremony, he couldn't touch them. This week he wasn't sure whether he could bring himself to play them. But he did. What had once haunted him, dare I say it, may now be what helps heal him."
In Spare, Harry recalled the death of his mother and the sound of bagpipes: "With bagpipes, it's not the tune, it's the tone. Thousands of years old, bagpipes are built to amplify what's already in the heart. If you're feeling silly, bagpipes make you sillier. If you're angry, bagpipes bring your blood to a higher boil. And if you're in grief, even if you’re twelve years old and don't know you're in grief, maybe especially if you don't know, bagpipes can drive you mad."
As Harry sat down, Meghan kissed his shoulder and placed a comforting hand on his back.
Team UK went above and beyond to show Meghan their love this week and I know she appreciated it.
Royal Navy Veteran Kenetha 'Frankie' Franklyn embraced the Duchess tonight.
Harry’s hand 🥰🥰 pic.twitter.com/qiv6pqQRNB
— Dani 💛❤️🖤 (@ArchLiliHazMeg) September 16, 2023
It's a night for hugs.
A little dancing as Rita Ora performed.
There are so many moments I won't forget. Oleksandr Makovei of Team Ukraine giving his all in the Men's IF8 Discus Throw Final for one.
Ihor's story.
“I believe it is all about choice. Your choice shows your Invictus spirit and resilience.” — Ihor Halushka of Team Ukraine 🇺🇦 After a severe brain injury from a projectile in his head, Ihor was unable to walk or talk. Giving up was not an option!
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 16, 2023
#IAmInvictus pic.twitter.com/WQIpDGgk3W
This is Invictus.
The Invictus spirit is Wali Noori who takes home 4 medals for Britain. UK Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer said earlier today: "I pay enormous tribute to him {Harry} and everything he's done. You can see lives he's changed, literally there right in front of you. Personally, I'm incredibly grateful to him."
Wali Noori is blind from an explosion whilst serving with British Troops in Afghanistan. He’s just won 4 gold medals for the UK @WeAreInvictus
— Rt Hon Johnny Mercer (@JohnnyMercerUK) September 16, 2023
“I wanted to win them for Britain” 🇬🇧🤝🇦🇫 pic.twitter.com/pONdKMuiYb
Team Nigeria made a beautiful impression. It was not only their first year competing, they are the first country from Africa to join the Invictus family. Harry teased Meghan would be cheering them on, and my word, did they give her a warm welcome! The team gave Meghan the name name Amira Ngozi Lolo. 'Amira' is the name of a warrior princess from legend, while 'Ngozi' means 'blessing' and 'Lolo' means 'royal wife'.
The Duke and Duchess were on their feet for the team tonight.
NAIJA 🇳🇬in the house @WeAreInvictus @invictusgamesNG pic.twitter.com/7gmmpfODuF
— Misan Harriman (@misanharriman) September 16, 2023
"I wish this event could go on forever. The Invictus Games has not only helped wounded, sick, and injured Soldiers on their path to recovery but also gave us all profound insights into their resilience and determination." - Team Nigeria.
I wish this event could go on forever 😭.
— Invictus Nigeria 🇳🇬 (@invictusgamesNG) September 16, 2023
The Invictus Games has not only helped wounded, sick, and injured Soldiers on their path to recovery but also gave us all profound insights into their resilience and determination. #InvictusGamesDE #InvictusGames23 pic.twitter.com/Grh8owhIvI
Team UK's Jonny Ball said: "Prince Harry, the human touch he has is simply extraordinary. He came around and met every single athlete. I was also able to show him a picture of my little girl who is also a redhead. I said to him, 'Oh look, this is my little girl." I've got a picture of her pulling a funny face and he said, "My little girl does that face!"
VIDEO: As the Invictus Games draws to a close in Germany, a Kent soldier has been telling us about his experience of the tournament #kmfmnews pic.twitter.com/4LTZPgS0j3
— kmfm news (@kmfmnews) September 16, 2023
Rachel Kerrigan's story will break your heart: "Learning to live with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and to get to a point that I am thriving again is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. The Invictus Games gave me that. They taught me that it is never too late to build the future I want. They gave me the self-belief to realise that, no matter how hard life has been, I have the physical and mental strength to succeed. When I look back at how far I have come, I am incredibly grateful." Below, Rachel talks about the role her eight-year-old daughter played, essentially providing a support system during the darkest days.
Rachel Kerrigan's story of how she found the #InvictusGames is remarkable.
— Invictus Games Foundation 💛🖤+💜 (@WeAreInvictus) September 14, 2023
We were honoured that she shared it at the #IGFConversation with us at #IG23. #WeAreInvictus | @Boeing 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/BjzPlGToHl
Harry and Meghan fell in love with sweet Hope yesterday. At just twelve weeks old, she's helping Team Belgium's Martun manage his PTSD. For Martun, Invictus means being there for people -- with visible and invisible injuries.
Hope the Puppy helped Martun with managing his PTSD and it's wonderful to see them here at the #InvictusGames Düsseldorf 2023! #WeAreInvictus 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/2Qb7g5xh8u
— Invictus Games Foundation 💛🖤+💜 (@WeAreInvictus) September 16, 2023
Invictus is about friendship.
The Duke spent his birthday with his extended family, the Invictus family. Here are a few moments I captured yesterday ❤️ @WeAreInvictus #invictusgames pic.twitter.com/nIBnY4CqOu
— Misan Harriman (@misanharriman) September 16, 2023
It's fun!
Prince Harry is so unserious 😭😂 pic.twitter.com/CBkLtSxJ9J
— Dani 💛❤️🖤 (@ArchLiliHazMeg) September 16, 2023
Looking ahead -- a special message from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Welcome to Canada 🇨🇦 Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau invites you to experience the next Invictus Games from 6 - 17 February 2025 👉 Welcome to the @InvictusGames25 🍁 pic.twitter.com/NZ5q0cE8c1
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 16, 2023
Traditional Territory leaders welcome Invictus.
The @InvictusGames25 will be held on the traditional territories of the Lil̓wat7úl (Líl̓wat), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations 🍁 They welcome you to their land 💛 pic.twitter.com/ADCPPMJnJH
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 16, 2023
It's about moments like this.
Seeing these two in action again, doing what they do best, has been the cherry on top.
I love them your honour 😭💖 pic.twitter.com/6WBMsBGCCp
— Iris 🦆 (@IrisTheeScholar) September 16, 2023
The Duchess has had a fantastic wardrobe of sleek, stylish neutrals at the games this week, however I think you'll agree she saved the best for last.
I'm one of one. pic.twitter.com/ozEhNcQROV
— Alexis🏅 #InvictusGames (@ArchewellBaby) September 16, 2023
The Duchess wore the beautiful strapless cut-out Cult Gaia Raylene gown (with thanks to Pearl).
The 'seamoss' tailored piece is described: "Raylene is an artistically crafted gown that plays with texture and pattern. This floor-length gown features floral patterns in Seamoss-colored lace. The floral pattern is enhanced by lazercut cutouts that give depth and complexity. An underlayer assures discrete coverage. A back-zip allows for easy-wear and a long-slit up the back ensures that you can move and dance in this slimming dress." The embroidered gown is available here and here.
Meghan has been doing her own hair and make up throughout the week. The results have been fabulous.
Meghan wore her nappa leather Aquazzura pumps from earlier today.
She accessorised with her Kimai earrings.
And her Cartier Love bracelet.
To watch the ceremony in its entirety, please click here.
Invictus Dusseldorf -- a week not to be forgotten.