Prince Harry rang in his 40th birthday weekend with a heartfelt appearance at a charity tennis tournament in Los Angeles.
The event was held in memory of George Zajfen, the late son of one of Harry’s wife Meghan Markle’s closest friends, Kelly McKee Zajfen.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were there to support the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament, which raises funds for the Alliance for Children’s Rights, an organization that helps teenagers in the foster care system.
Remembering George
The tournament was organized to honor George, who tragically passed away in July 2022 at just nine years old.
Meghan and Kelly Zajfen share a strong bond, and Meghan has been a supportive friend throughout Kelly’s grief.
The event, which has been renamed in George’s memory, featured a round-robin doubles competition and a luncheon.
A Heartfelt Tribute
On Instagram, Kelly Zajfen and her family expressed their gratitude to Harry and Meghan for their support.
Alongside a series of photos from the day, they wrote a touching message: “Extra special day too…HAPPY 40th Birthday H! May this trip around the sun be the best yet.”
The post highlighted the emotional and loving atmosphere of the day and emphasized how the funds raised would benefit children in foster care.
A Star-Studded Event
The tennis tournament attracted several celebrities, including Jonathan Scott from Property Brothers, Zooey Deschanel from New Girl, Zach Braff from Scrubs, and Abigail Spencer, Meghan’s former Suits co-star.
Photos from the event showed Harry and Meghan mingling with guests, with Harry in a casual T-shirt and blazer and Meghan in a chic tan dress.
Royal Birthday Messages
As Harry celebrated, his brother Prince William and sister-in-law Kate Middleton extended their birthday wishes via social media, posting a message that read: “Wishing a Happy 40th Birthday to The Duke of Sussex!”
This gesture was noted as somewhat surprising given the ongoing tensions between the brothers.
The Royal Family’s official account also marked Harry’s birthday with a brief post and a smiling photo of him.
A Year of Highs and Lows
Turning 40 has come amidst a whirlwind year for Harry.
He has been involved in various activities, from trying his hand at skeleton bobsledding and visiting Colombia and Nigeria, to receiving the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
The Duke’s year has also included legal battles and a brief return to the UK for his uncle’s funeral.
Looking Ahead
Harry’s upcoming plans include a trip to New York later this month, where he will engage in activities for the Archewell Foundation and several other organizations.
Meghan is also making headlines with her new venture, American Riviera Orchard, though it has faced some trademarking challenges.
As Harry navigates this busy year, his milestone birthday and the charity event served as a poignant reminder of the causes close to his heart and the support of his family and friends.