Prince Harry’s latest public appearance moved the conversation from royal family drama back to one of the causes most closely tied to his post-palace identity.
People reported that the Duke of Sussex attended TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports event in New York City on Thursday, July 16.
TIME reported that Harry was among the honorees who delivered toasts during the gala, where he spoke about the power of sport through the Invictus Games.
Harry Kept the Red Carpet Light
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People reported that Harry told photographers on the red carpet that they were the “most polite” photographers he had ever met. Harry stepped out in New York less than a week after visiting King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House in England.
People reported that the July 10 reunion also included Meghan Markle, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
The Event Honored His Work With Invictus
Harry was recognized for founding the Invictus Games, the international adaptive sports competition for wounded, injured and sick service members and veterans.
The first Invictus Games were held in London in 2014. Later editions took place in Orlando, Toronto, Sydney, The Hague, Düsseldorf and Vancouver-Whistler, with the next Games scheduled for Birmingham, England, in 2027.
Harry served in the British Army for a decade, and People reported that he was inspired to create Invictus after attending the Warrior Games in Colorado Springs in 2013.
His Toast Focused on Recovery, Not Celebrity
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During his toast, Harry returned to the idea that sport can do more than create winners. TIME reported that he described sport as “medicine” and said it can restore confidence, purpose, identity and connection for people rebuilding their lives.
He also spoke about the families around competitors, not only the athletes themselves. Harry said the Invictus movement shows that sport can rebuild, reconnect and redefine what is possible.