Tensions within the royal family have escalated as reports emerge that King Charles III met with David Beckham in a private gathering at his Highgrove home, while seemingly snubbing his youngest son, Prince Harry, during the Duke’s recent visit to the UK. This perceived betrayal has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about the strained relationship between the monarch and the Sussexes.
According to a report by Daily Express, Spokesman for Harry stated, “in response to the many inquiries and continued speculation on whether or not the duke will meet with his father while in the UK this week, it, unfortunately, will not be possible due to His Majesty’s full programme.” The Duke of Sussex, who arrived in London on Tuesday before his appearance at St Paul’s Cathedral the following day, was unable to secure a meeting with his father due to the King’s busy schedule.
However, it has been revealed that during Harry’s time in the country, Charles found time to host a private session with the former football star, David Beckham, to discuss Beckham’s charitable foundation. No pictures were released of the meeting, but a source close to the King confirmed the get-together to The Sun newspaper.
This apparent prioritization of Beckham over his own son has raised questions about the King’s motives and the state of his relationship with Harry and Meghan Markle. Beckham has met Harry and Charles on multiple occasions in the past and was previously an ambassador for the Invictus Games, the event that brought the Sussexes to the UK.
After missing the opportunity to see Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have now flown out to Nigeria to promote the Invictus Games, further fueling speculation about the rift within the royal family. Earlier this year, Harry had settled questions over whether he would be meeting his father during the short visit, confirming they would not due to the King’s “full schedule.”
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams weighed in on the situation, telling Express.co.uk, “I would have thought one is likely to be planned, given that King Charles has a serious illness, though he is displaying amazing energy in his engagements.” However, Fitzwilliams added a caveat, stating, “However after this week, when according to Harry’s spokesperson, his commitments precluded a meeting, the King has sent a clear sign that any future visit is likely to be beneficial only if it’s private and planned beforehand without the accompanying media circus which we’ve just seen.”
The Sussexes’ trip to Nigeria has drawn criticism from some experts, who suggest it appears like an “unofficial royal tour” and has a more “sinister motivation” beyond promoting the Invictus Games. However, the couple’s supporters have praised their efforts to shine a light on important causes and connect with people around the world.
Amid the ongoing drama, Meghan Markle paid a gushing tribute to her husband during the Nigeria visit, stating, “He is the reason I joined this family and life.” She also faced criticism for a perceived fashion “blunder” before changing into a chic white suit as she and Harry visited army wives, with royal watchers praising her elegant look.
The question of security arrangements for the Sussexes in the UK has also been a point of contention, with speculation about whether their protection could be paid for under certain circumstances. Additionally, some have suggested the royal family “missed a huge opportunity for a boost” by not having Harry appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony during the King’s Coronation celebrations.
As the saga continues to unfold, all eyes will be on whether a potential meeting between Harry and his father can be arranged in the near future, or if the perceived betrayal will further widen the rift within the royal ranks.
