Prince Harry recently made a surprise appearance at the NFL Honors event, where he presented the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award to Cameron Heyward, a defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers. During his speech, Harry couldn't resist poking fun at the American game and its similarities to rugby, which originated in England.
In a lighthearted manner, the Duke of Sussex remarked on how rugby was 'stolen' and transformed into American football. He humorously pointed out the differences, such as passing the ball forwards instead of backwards, wearing protective pads and helmets, and taking regular breaks every 15 seconds. He even jokingly suggested shortening the season to 18 weeks compared to rugby's 10-month season.
Despite the jests, Prince Harry took a moment to praise the talent and dedication of NFL players, commending their contributions both on and off the field. He emphasized their role as role models and highlighted the importance of giving back to the community.
It's worth noting that Prince Harry's appearance at the event took place just hours after he returned to California following a brief visit to the U.K. to see his father, King Charles. The King had recently been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing a procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace released a statement reassuring the public that the King has begun regular treatments and remains optimistic about his recovery.
During his visit to the U.K., Prince Harry traveled without his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who stayed in California. The couple made the decision to relocate to the U.S. in 2020 after stepping back as senior members of the royal family.
Prince Harry's playful banter at the NFL Honors reflects his ability to engage with audiences and inject humor into his speeches. His appearance not only delighted attendees but also highlighted his dedication to fulfilling royal duties alongside his commitment to his family.
