Chris Martin took the stage at BC Place in Vancouver on February 8, 2025, to perform at the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games, delivering a heartfelt message and a humorous anecdote about Prince Harry. The Coldplay frontman, whose music has long resonated with global audiences, took a moment to acknowledge the Duke of Sussex’s role in founding the Games and expressed his admiration for Harry’s leadership and kindness.

During a break in his performance, Martin shared a personal phone call he had with Prince Harry before agreeing to perform. “I would like to say thank you, of course, to Prince Harry. When he called me, he said, ‘I’ve called every other musician in the world. They’ve all said they’re not available, so I have to call you,'” Martin joked. The camera panned to Harry and Meghan Markle in the audience, who laughed and shook their heads in mock disagreement. “And I said, ‘Your Royal Holiness, I’m honored,'” Martin added, drawing applause from the crowd.

Following his lighthearted introduction, Martin took a moment to sincerely thank Harry for his dedication to the Games. “But thank you, Harry, for being such an inspiring leader and kind and sweet man. I hope you have the most wonderful Games of all. It’s a pleasure to be here.”

The night was filled with energy and emotion, with Martin performing Coldplay hits including “Viva La Vida” and “Higher Power.” He also led a performance of the Invictus Games anthem, accompanied by members of the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy. Martin had previously composed the score for “I AM” in 2014, set to the words of the famous Invictus poem, which has been a staple of the Games since its inception.

The opening ceremony was a star-studded event, with performances from Katy Perry, Noah Kahan, Nelly Furtado, and Roxane Bruneau. Their participation highlighted the global appeal and significance of the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.

Over 550 competitors from 23 nations entered BC Place in the Parade of Nations, with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle watching from their seats. The couple, known for their public support of the Games, were seen cheering enthusiastically and engaging with the audience. Meghan was spotted capturing moments on her phone, likely for her newly launched Instagram page, where she had already posted several updates earlier in the day.

One of the most endearing moments of the night came when Meghan and Harry appeared on the Jumbotron. The crowd erupted in cheers as Meghan smiled and rubbed her husband’s back while he gave a grateful wave. Her presence, always a focal point of media attention, underscored the couple’s continued commitment to the Invictus Games and the veterans they seek to uplift.

Founded in 2014 by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games were created as a platform for service members and veterans to find strength and camaraderie through sports. Inspired by his own military service and experiences with wounded soldiers, Harry envisioned a competition that would not only celebrate resilience but also offer a means of healing. The Games have since grown into an internationally recognized event, with each iteration reinforcing the message of triumph over adversity.

Despite the Games’ positive impact, Harry and Meghan continue to be subjects of public scrutiny. While supporters commend their dedication, critics often analyze their every move. The opening ceremony provided a moment of unity, as the crowd at BC Place and viewers worldwide came together to celebrate the athletes and their incredible journeys.

Chris Martin’s words reflected the admiration many hold for Harry’s vision and persistence. His humor set the stage for an evening of celebration, while his music provided the emotional soundtrack to an event built on determination and hope.

As the 2025 Invictus Games commence, the spotlight remains on the athletes whose courage and perseverance inspire millions. Their stories transcend politics and public opinion, embodying the true spirit of resilience. With performances, speeches, and heartfelt moments, the opening ceremony was a powerful reminder of why the Invictus Games continue to be a beacon of strength and solidarity.