Prince Harry has joined the chorus of devastated England supporters after the national team’s World Cup run came to a painful end, sharing his disappointment while attending the TIME100 Sports Gala in New York City on Thursday night.
The Duke of Sussex said he was saddened by the Three Lions’ defeat to Argentina as he stepped out for the star-studded New York event, where guests included LeBron James, Lindsey Vonn, Jalen Brunson, Folarin Balogun and other major names from the world of sport.
Harry, who attended the gala without Meghan Markle, was asked on the red carpet whether England’s World Cup semi-final loss in Atlanta had left him feeling down.
‘Of course!’ the 41-year-old told Page Six, in his first appearance since a week in the UK to promote his Invictus Games.
His appearance in New York came after he was included in TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026, earning a place in the publication’s “leaders” category.
England had looked on course for a place in the final after taking a 1-0 lead against old rivals Argentina, only to let the advantage slip away in the closing stages of Wednesday’s dramatic semi-final in Atlanta.
The defending champions ultimately claimed a 2-1 victory, with Lionel Messi helping spark a late turnaround that crushed the Three Lions’ World Cup hopes.
Prince Harry attended the TIME100 Sports Gala red carpet in New York City on Thursday
Harry was seen with US soccer standout Folarin Balogun at the New York gala
The Duke also spoke with Eric Kelliher, from TIME, and fellow guest of honour Lindsey Vonn
Harry with former NBA star Masai Ujiri
The Duke of Sussex said he was ‘sad’ after England’s World Cup heartbreak against Argentina
Harry’s older brother, Prince William, previously posted on social media that he was ‘gutted’ after Thomas Tuchel’s team fell short of a first World Cup final in six decades.
‘England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you,’ he wrote. ‘Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch, for an incredible tournament.
‘The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all… the most complete England team in a tournament,’ he continued. ‘Hold your heads high.’
During the second half of a tense World Cup showdown in Atlanta, Anthony Gordon put England 1-0 ahead after 55 minutes.
Tuchel’s side held that advantage until five minutes from time before Enzo Fernandez netted a long-range equalizer.
Then, in injury time, Lautaro Martinez headed home to secure Argentina’s place in Sunday’s final against Spain in New York.
Twenty four hours on, Harry was pictured hanging out with sports stars such as Brunson – who recently led the New York Knicks to the NBA championship – and US soccer star Folarin Balogun.
Earlier this month, Harry headed back to the UK for a five-day solo visit. He was not joined by Meghan or their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet due to ongoing security concerns.
The Duke of Sussex was joined at the gala by New York Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson
Harry shares a laugh with US Olympic skating stars Alysa Liu and Madison Chock in New York
Jessica Sibley, CEO, TIME and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, at the inaugural TIME100 Sports List Celebration
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Harry was honored by TIME for his work with the Invictus Games, the international sporting event for wounded, injured or sick servicemen and women.
‘Sport held me together,’ he told TIME. ‘I was one of those kids at school who did not enjoy classroom work.
‘If it wasn’t for the sports field, and the amount of sports that were on offer, there’s no way I would have stayed in school.’
Next summer’s Invictus Games will be held in Birmingham, UK, and will feature 550 competitors from around 25 countries.
