Prince Harry plays pickleball with Birmingham pupils

The Duke of Sussex joined schoolchildren in Birmingham for a game of pickleball as he launched a new Invictus Games education programme.

Prince Harry visited Ninestiles Academy in Acocks Green to mark the launch of Inspire, a scheme designed to use stories from Invictus competitors to teach children about resilience and mental fitness.

Dressed casually in a dark polo shirt and jeans, the duke appeared relaxed as he played with pupils and later answered their questions.

During several rallies against Year 7 and Year 11 students, he joked his back was hurting after reaching for a low shot and applauded youngsters when they won points.

Asked who inspired him, the duke replied: “It’s not a single person, it’s a whole group of people.”

Pointing to Invictus competitors, he added: “It’s these guys. This Invictus community of people who get knocked down but keep getting back up.”

The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry for wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans, will be held in Birmingham in 2027.