Meghan Markle became visibly emotional during a charity event supporting her close friend Kelly McKee Zajfen, who lost her young son in 2022.
The Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry attended the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament at the Los Angeles Tennis Club on Saturday, October 18. The fundraiser honored Kelly’s son George, who passed away at age nine from COVID-19 and viral meningitis.
During the event, Markle wiped away tears as Zajfen delivered a courtside speech thanking the royal couple for their ongoing support.
A video captured the touching moment and which a user later shared online, showing Markle standing alongside Harry as she became emotional during her friend’s remarks.
The event raised funds for the Alliance for Children’s Rights. The organization advocates for children in foster care. It also provides legal aid, safe housing, education, and family support for vulnerable children and youth.
Heartfelt Words of Gratitude
Zajfen directed her speech toward Markle and Harry. She acknowledged their continued presence in her family’s life since the loss of her son.
“You continue to show up for our family, for foster youth and for every child who deserves a chance to thrive,” Zajfen said as the Sussexes and other attendees looked on.
She continued: “We are endlessly inspired by how you use your voice,” as Markle began to cry. “It’s the greatest honor that you chose to celebrate the Alliance for Children’s rights … we love you so much.”
In one moment captured during the event, Harry, 41, placed his hand on Markle’s hip in a supportive gesture.
Sharing Special Moments
Following the tournament, Markle took to her Instagram Stories to share moments from the day. She posted a selfie with Zajfen and George’s twin sister, Lily Zajfen, writing that she was “proudly” supporting the event.
The mother of two also shared a sweet video showing Lily running over to Harry and excitedly embracing him. “Our other favorite Lily,” Markle wrote atop the clip, according to Page Six. The caption served as a warm reference to the couple’s own daughter, Princess Lilibet, 4.
Zajfen later posted her own tribute after the tournament, sharing multiple photos of Markle and Harry interacting with guests. One particularly touching image showed Markle and Kelly walking hand-in-hand while smiling warmly at each other.
“The George Zajfen Tennis Tournament was nothing short of extraordinary. Our incredible community showed up with so much love, heart, and spirit… all in honour of our beautiful boy,” Zajfen wrote.
The tournament achieved remarkable success, raising a record-breaking $200,000 for the cause.
Zajfen publicly thanked the couple and their Archewell Foundation for serving as lead supporters for the second consecutive year. “Meg & H, you continue to amaze me with your commitment to community and your fierce loyalty and love in friendship,” she wrote. “I’m always in awe of your ability to show up for others, for this cause, and for our family. Thank you for holding Georgie in your hearts and helping us carry his light forward.”
The Archewell Foundation released a statement following the event. “The annual George Zajfen Tennis Tournament raises essential funds to advance the Alliance’s mission of securing safe homes, quality education, and holistic support for children and families in need. At The Archewell Foundation, we remain committed to uplifting communities, and are proud to support the Alliance for Children’s rights dedication to ensure children receive the support and care they need.”
Since Zajfen and her husband Julian Zajfen lost their son, Markle has consistently supported her friend through various charitable efforts and fundraising initiatives.
In April 2024, the former Suits actress and her co-star Abigail Spencer attended Zajfen’s Alliance of Moms charity event. They modeled graphic T-shirts that give back to young parents who have experienced foster care.
Last month, Zajfen offered insight into her longtime friendship with Markle during an Instagram Q&A. “I’ve actually known her for almost 20 years. She even came to my wedding (15 years ago!), and she’s been the most amazing, nurturing, fun, loving human. She’s been by my side, especially since Georgie died, and I cherish our friendship very much,” she wrote.
