Harry Apologizes for Dodgers Cap Faux Pas in "Hatgate" Saga
The headwear choice of Prince Harry, specifically his Los Angeles Dodgers cap, garnered significant media attention, prompting him to issue an apology.
During an interview with Canada’s CTV News on Thursday, November 6, the 41-year-old Harry lightheartedly remarked, “To begin, I wish to extend my apologies to Canada for donning the cap.” He further added, “Secondly, I was acting under considerable pressure.”
The Duke of Sussex clarified that he felt he had “limited options” regarding the incident he dubbed “hatgate.”
He elaborated, “The invitation to the L.A. Dodgers owner’s private box or the dugout came directly from the owner himself.” Consequently, he stated, “I believed I was simply acting in a courteous manner.”
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On October 28, Harry and his spouse, Meghan Markle, were seen attending Game 4 of the World Series at Dodger Stadium, witnessing the contest between the Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays.
In the Thursday interview, Harry was observed donning a Blue Jays cap and conveyed a commitment to the residents of Toronto.
He further declared, “I intend to wear this exclusively moving forward, ensuring I avoid any repeat errors,” mentioning his continued support for the Blue Jays throughout the remaining World Series matches. (The Dodgers secured their second consecutive World Series title after Game 7 on Saturday, November 1.)
Harry also revealed that his decision to wear the Dodgers hat stemmed from a practical consideration.
“When one is experiencing hair thinning on the crown and seated beneath intense stadium lights, any available headwear becomes a welcome accessory,” he quipped. “My sincere apologies to the Canadian public. I am heartbroken by the Blue Jays’ defeat, but long live the Jays.”
Harry’s evident dismay over the Blue Jays’ loss was underscored when Meghan, 44, shared a social media video commemorating the Dodgers’ victory. While he kissed his wife in acknowledgment of her team’s triumph, his enthusiasm appeared somewhat subdued.
Meghan’s close friend, Kelly McKee Zajfen, seemed to further emphasize Toronto’s defeat by sharing her own social media clip featuring the two women enthusiastically supporting the Dodgers.
“What an incredible match! Sorry, H, your team didn’t clinch the win, but mine certainly did,” Zajfen posted on Instagram Stories on Sunday, November 2.
One might ponder the reason behind a former royal family member’s allegiance to the Blue Jays. Indeed, Harry shares a profound historical connection with Canada. The Duke’s personal ties to the nation originate from his military service, during which he was deployed in Afghanistan alongside the Canadian Armed Forces. (It is also worth noting that Harry presided over the Invictus Games in Vancouver earlier this year.)
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On Thursday, Harry also expressed his affection for Toronto, crediting Canada for introducing him to Meghan. The pair spent considerable time in Toronto during the initial stages of their relationship while Meghan was engaged in filming Suits.
Speaking at the True Patriot Love Foundation National Tribute Dinner, he remarked, “This metropolis will forever hold immense significance for me.” He continued, “You presented me with a spouse and you hosted the Invictus Games in 2017, both pivotal moments in my life, encompassing both my career and personal journey.”
Harry is presently in Canada for a visit commemorating veterans ahead of Remembrance Day. He refuted claims that this trip was intended as a slight against his brother, Prince William, who is simultaneously visiting Brazil.
Due to Harry “not receiving the identical degree of security and safeguarding as other active members of the Royal Family,” his public engagements must be announced nearer to their scheduled dates, as stated by a spokesperson for Team Sussex earlier in the week.
“These engagements were arranged almost a year in advance. The primary event’s date, the dinner, is determined by the charitable organization, not Prince Harry,” the statement continued. “He lacks the authority to alter those dates. We consistently rely on the guidance provided by his private security consultants and the event’s security personnel when deciding the appropriate timing for announcing such trips.”
