A friend of Charles expressed sadness over the situation, stating, "It's all very sad. While it is true that the King is understandably cautious about meeting with Harry, given the media attention that tends to accompany such visits, it should be noted that he did agree to see his son during a particularly vulnerable moment of his illness [in February], and on very short notice."
The friend further commented, "While it was unlikely that he would roll out the red carpet as soon as this Invictus trip was announced, considering doctors' advice for him to focus on treatment and recovery, the notion that he refused to accommodate it in his schedule... well, let's just say memories and perspectives may differ once again."