The Duke of Sussex opens up about playing against King Charles in a Netflix series exploring polo’s family dynamics.
Prince Harry has delved into the complexities of father-son rivalry in a new Netflix documentary centred on polo. The Duke of Sussex, an avid polo player, reveals his experiences competing both alongside and against his father, King Charles, in the five-episode series.
Speaking with legendary Argentine polo player Adolfo Cambiaso, Harry discusses the emotional intricacies of playing against family members. Cambiaso, who frequently competes alongside his son Poroto, shares his perspective on balancing pride and competitiveness on the field.
“You’ve created something special,” Harry tells Cambiaso, admiring the bond shared between the Argentine player and his son. Harry then shifts the focus, asking, “But what’s it like playing against your kid?”
Cambiaso admits, “It’s difficult. And worse when you lose.” Harry laughs in response, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of such rivalries: “You’re proud, but also angry.”
The documentary offers a rare glimpse into Harry’s relationship with King Charles, casting light on the dynamics of their time as teammates and competitors. This topic resonates amidst broader public speculation about the state of their relationship following Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020.
Filmed at the US Open Polo Championship in Wellington, Florida, the series highlights elite global players on and off the field, with polo portrayed as both a glamorous and gritty sport. In a light-hearted moment from the series trailer, it is described as showcasing “dirty, sweaty boys… riding,” bringing a sense of playful charm to the production.
The Sussexes also make a personal appearance in the final episode, which was filmed at the Royal Salute Polo Challenge in April. The event, held in Florida, benefitted Sentebale, a charity co-founded by Harry. The episode captures a touching moment as Harry and Meghan share a kiss on the podium, underscoring the couple’s shared passion for the sport and philanthropy.
This latest documentary is the fourth collaboration between Archewell Productions, founded by Harry and Meghan, and Netflix. It builds on its multi-million-pound deal with the streaming platform, offering audiences a mix of personal insight and polished storytelling.
The series provides a platform for Harry to combine his love for polo with his broader interest in exploring personal relationships. As he recounts both the camaraderie and competition that define father-son dynamics in sport, the documentary serves as a unique lens into his journey as both a son and a father.