Prince Harry recently made an appearance attempting to surf at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Lemoore, California—a renowned spot that’s approximately 100 miles inland, famous for its challenging man-made waves.
A video posted on Instagram by professional surfer Raymond van Bastolaer shows Prince Harry trying his best to conquer the notoriously difficult wave. Known for his expertise on monumental waves in Tahiti, van Bastolaer cheekily captioned the post, "In Tahiti, they might still call you Prince Harry, but here at the Surf Ranch, you're just my brother." The playful exchange hints at a sense of camaraderie, even if Harry’s form looked more like that of a land-bound penguin than a seasoned surfer.
Prince Harry, beginning his ride with van Bastolaer on a jet ski, showcased a mix of enthusiasm and inexperience as he tried to balance on the six-foot artificial wave. Though not exactly graceful, his efforts reflect a spirited attempt at trying something new. The clip, however, sparked intrigue not just for the surfing but for the timing of its release. Some speculated whether this playful yet awkward footage was strategically shared by Meghan Markle, possibly as a subtle message or gentle jab at her husband.
The theory making rounds is that Meghan may have more candid footage up her sleeve, potentially using this as a hint that she could share other moments with the public. If this release was intentional, it might be Meghan’s way of reminding Harry of the "power of the footage," especially at a time when the couple's relationship and living arrangements have been the subject of persistent speculation. Rumors have been swirling about a potential separation and house-hunting in Portugal, with this video possibly aimed at dispelling—or fueling—those narratives by showing Harry living his best Californian lifestyle.
Interestingly, the video of Harry’s surfing adventure arrives just as Prince William was seen engaging with children and young athletes back in the UK, emphasizing his role as a hands-on community figure and future king. While William mingled with future Olympic hopefuls, projecting an image of dedication to community and duty, Harry was seen on the artificial waves in California, raising questions about how the two royal brothers are presenting themselves to the public.
While William is often praised for his visible contributions to society, Harry’s California lifestyle has sparked criticism, with some questioning his commitment to his royal duties. This comparison is further emphasized by the sharp contrast between the two events. Harry’s appearance on the surfboard, dry and seemingly relaxed, stands in stark opposition to his brother’s community-focused activities, stirring debate over how each brother is viewed by the public.
Adding to this narrative is the constant discussion about Harry’s public persona, which Meghan has reportedly managed with strategic precision in recent years. Some observers see this surf footage as yet another well-timed PR move, emphasizing that while Harry may not be as active in formal royal engagements, he is still very much "out there," enjoying life on his own terms. Whether or not Meghan intended to remind viewers of her influence over Harry’s public image, the video certainly suggests she’s keenly aware of the impact these glimpses into their lives can have.
Ultimately, Harry’s surfing escapade may be a lighthearted moment that shows his down-to-earth side, yet it’s also one laced with layers of royal rivalry, PR strategy, and perhaps even a touch of personal signaling. As the royal brothers continue to carve out their individual paths, every small gesture—whether surfing or spending time with young athletes—carries a message, and the public, as always, is eager to decode it.
