Prince Harry is receiving recognition for something beyond royal headlines.
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The Duke of Sussex has been named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2026, joining a list that includes some of the biggest names in athletics, from LeBron James and Stephen Curry to Caitlin Clark, A'ja Wilson and Lionel Messi.
According to TIME, Harry's selection stems largely from his work with the Invictus Games, the international sporting event he founded in 2014 for wounded, injured and sick military veterans and service members.
The idea for the competition grew out of Harry's military service and experiences in Afghanistan. A former British Army officer who served for a decade under the name Captain Wales, Harry has frequently described the Games as an opportunity for veterans to demonstrate resilience rather than seek sympathy.
"No one wants sympathy," Harry said during the launch of the Invictus Games. "All they want is an opportunity to prove themselves."
The event has become one of the most recognized adaptive sports competitions in the world, staging seven editions since its debut and drawing competitors from dozens of countries.
TIME highlighted the lasting impact of the Games, which continue to shine a spotlight on recovery, perseverance and the power of competition.
The next Invictus Games are scheduled for 2027, and reports have suggested Harry hopes to attend with wife Meghan Markle and their children. Multiple outlets have also reported that he remains interested in repairing relations with members of the royal family, though no formal plans have been announced.
