Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, was recently seen in an affectionate embrace with Nacho Figueras, a well-known polo player and close ally of Prince Harry, at the Royal Salute Polo Challenge in Palm Beach. This event happened on April 13, and has since stirred various conversations about the appropriateness of such interactions.
In Touch Weekly reported that the incident is getting significant attention due to its possible breach of royal decorum. Meghan's cozy moment with Nacho Figueras at a polo event has sparked discussions on decorum and intimacy in public royal appearances.
The Royal Salute Polo Challenge not only serves as a sporting event but also a stage for high-profile figures to gather, making every action scrutinized by the public and press alike.
Meghan, who has often been seen as a non-traditional member of the royal family, found herself at the center of debate over a seemingly innocent gesture.
Nacho Figueras, aged 47, is more than just a polo player; he's been a close friend of Prince Harry for years. Both men share a passion for polo, which has solidified their friendship. Figueras, who is married, was attending the Polo Challenge with his wife, Delfina, who was present during the incident.
Meanwhile, Meghan and Prince Harry were in Florida primarily for the filming of a Netflix documentary focusing on Harry's involvement in polo, which adds another layer to their trip's purpose. The public appearance was one of several events they attended together during this time.
Meghan, who recently launched a lifestyle brand named American Riviera Orchard, frequently finds her actions under the microscope, a result of her high-profile status and past controversies regarding public displays of affection while in royal capacities.
Observers at the event pointed out that Meghan's behavior seemed more intimate than what is typically expected from a figure of her standing, especially in comparison to how other royals, like Prince William and Princess Kate, conduct themselves in public. Royal engagements traditionally underscore a minimalistic approach to physical affection, aiming to uphold a decorum that Meghan seems to bend with her more affectionate demeanor.
Comments from insiders at the event suggest that while Meghan's open display of affection drew some surprised looks, it was not out of character for her. “It raised some eyebrows at the polo match to see how cozy she got with Nacho,” shared an insider exclusively with In Touch.
"Back when Meghan and Harry were living in England, it was a big talking point how handsy they were. Some believed it was bad form for royals to be behaving like this in public and rather unseemly,” the insider continued, shedding light on the continuous debate surrounding Meghan's public persona.
Despite the occasional criticism, those close to Meghan describe her as a naturally affectionate person who is expressive in her interactions. “Meghan has always been physically affectionate, she’s very expressive,” noted the same insider, confirming that the embrace witnessed was "purely platonic" and deemed appropriate by those who know her well.
This incident reiterates the nuanced differences between personal disposition and public expectation, a line that Meghan has navigated since her entry into the royal spotlight. Moreover, her actions speak to the close relationship she and Harry share with Nacho Figueras and his family, who have provided substantial support to the couple.
"Harry and Meghan are very close with Nacho and his family. He’s been a real rock of support and is someone they trust implicitly,” further explains the insider. This comment underscores the deep bonds that extend beyond mere acquaintance, perhaps explaining the ease and comfort visible in Meghan's interactions with Figueras.
At the Royal Salute Polo Challenge, Meghan Markle's embrace with Nacho Figueras, a family friend, stirred observers and sparked discussion about norms concerning public royal behavior. Meghan, known for her expressive nature, was described by onlookers as unusually intimate for a duchess. Critics and supporters alike weigh her actions against traditional royal protocols observed by other members of the British Royal Family. Despite the scrutiny, insiders emphasize the platonic and affectionate nature of her interaction, supported by the strong, trusting relationships among Harry, Meghan, Nacho, and his family.
