Harry, drawing inspiration from his late mother Princess Diana's dedication to HIV work in Africa, incorporated the charitable aspect into the event. Arriving in Miami, he participated in an intimate panel discussion and later played in the polo match, which aimed to benefit the charity Center Bell. The organization, founded by Harry in 2006, focuses on aiding children and young adults in countries such as Lesotho and Botswana in southern Africa.
However, the event did not attract a large audience, contrary to initial expectations. Reports indicated that the match lacked spectators, with only a small crowd consisting of friends, bodyguards, and the Netflix film crew. It was revealed that the polo match was being filmed for an upcoming Netflix miniseries that will explore the glamorous world of professional polo, with Harry's involvement adding to the intrigue.
Critics questioned the staging of the event, suggesting that it was more of a film production than a traditional polo match. The absence of cheerleaders or genuine audiences raised further skepticism. Some even highlighted the staged scene of awarding the cup to the winning team, with Meghan Markle orchestrating the appearances to create a certain image.
While Meghan's team boasted about the match benefiting Center Bell and claimed that it was attended by 300 guests, the reality seemed far different. The limited presence of wealthy individuals and guests sparked discussions about the level of genuine support the couple had garnered. Critics viewed the event as a way for Meghan and Harry to control the narrative and avoid any negative reactions from the public.
This staged polo match, with its unusual circumstances and lack of authentic audience engagement, raised questions about Harry's motivations and his transition from royal life to the world of celebrity and entertainment. Some within the polo community expressed concerns about the impact of Harry's money-making ventures on the sport's integrity and his standing within aristocratic circles.
As Meghan and Harry continue to pursue their newfound careers in the entertainment industry, their actions and choices draw both attention and scrutiny. The dynamics of their evolving public image and the impact on their relationships within traditional royal circles remain subjects of ongoing speculation.