At the ESPY Awards, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry encountered a notably frosty reception from tennis legend Venus Williams.
When Meghan approached Venus with a smile while Harry was being presented with the Pat Tillman Award, Venus's response was cold and indifferent, clearly indicating a lack of warmth towards Meghan. Throughout the encounter, Venus's disapproval was evident; she remained seated, refusing to stand for Harry, leaving him to face the chilly reception alone.
Observers noted Venus's icy demeanor as Meghan and Harry left the ceremony about 30 minutes before it concluded. Meghan attempted to engage Venus in conversation, but Venus barely responded. Similarly, Harry's efforts to interact with her were met with a cold reception. Venus's fixed gaze on Meghan and her refusal to even offer a polite clap during the applause segments further highlighted her disdain. Unlike her sister Serena, Venus is not signed with WME, the agency representing Meghan. This distinction suggests that Venus's actions were not influenced by professional obligations, unlike those that might affect Serena. Venus's look conveyed a sense of knowing something was amiss, perhaps implying that she believed Meghan had undeservedly influenced the ESPY Awards.
Throughout the ceremony, Venus's body language spoke volumes. She crossed her arms and leaned away when Harry was about to receive his award, looking at the couple with a sneer. She didn't clap or acknowledge them warmly when they left, reinforcing the perception of disdain. Meghan's interactions with Serena have also been a subject of speculation. Despite Meghan publicly flaunting her friendship with Serena, their relationship seemed strained. Serena did not invite Meghan to a baby shower attended by many famous guests, nor does she follow Meghan on social media, indicating a possible distancing. Venus's behavior at the event added fuel to the speculation about Meghan's relationships within the Black community. Prominent figures like Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland are noted for not having close ties with Meghan, raising questions about Meghan's authenticity and acceptance within certain circles.
A particularly telling moment came when Meghan appeared to lead a standing ovation, prompting paid supporters in the audience to follow suit. This orchestrated move highlighted Meghan's efforts to manipulate public perception. Despite this, only about half of the audience stood, showing a lack of unanimous support. Interestingly, the audience refrained from booing Harry when he walked to the stage. Being ignored can drive narcissists like Harry and Meghan crazy, making public indifference a potent tool for their detractors. For figures like Charles, William, and the rest of the royal family, the best strategy might be to ignore Harry and Meghan publicly while working behind the scenes to legally sever ties between Harry, his family, and the firm.
Meghan's relationship with the Williams sisters, particularly Serena, has been under scrutiny. Despite her public displays of friendship, Meghan's absence from Serena's personal events and the visible tension with Venus suggest a more complicated dynamic. Meghan's actions, such as hugging Serena's husband over Serena herself during a dramatic exit, add to the narrative of her being perceived as insincere. The reaction from Venus Williams and the broader audience at the event underscores the challenges Meghan and Harry face in navigating their public lives. The couple's interactions with influential figures reveal underlying tensions and a lack of genuine acceptance. This episode serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding Meghan Markle's public persona.
