Full Breakdown
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Support Charity Event Honoring Late Son of Close Friend
10/20/2025, 12:59:33 PM
Emotional Tribute at the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament
On October 18, 2023, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, and her husband, Prince Harry, attended the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament in Los Angeles, an event dedicated to the memory of Meghan's close friend Kelly McKee Zajfen's late son, George. George, who died unexpectedly in July 2022 at the age of nine due to complications from Covid-19 and viral meningitis, was honored through this annual fundraising event, which supports the Alliance for Children’s Rights and the Alliance of Moms.
During the tournament, Meghan was visibly emotional as she listened to Kelly's heartfelt speech, which celebrated George's life and the impact of the organizations benefiting from the event. Meghan was seen wiping away tears while standing beside Prince Harry, who provided quiet support throughout the emotional proceedings.
Fundraising Success and Community Impact
The George Zajfen Tennis Tournament successfully raised a record-breaking $200,000, which will directly support vulnerable children and families in Los Angeles. The funds will help ensure that children in foster care receive essential legal protections and resources. Kelly McKee Zajfen expressed her gratitude on social media, highlighting the couple's commitment to community and their unwavering friendship. She stated, “Meg & H, you continue to amaze me with your commitment to community and your fierce loyalty and love in friendship.”
The Archewell Foundation, co-founded by Prince Harry and Meghan, sponsored the tournament for the second consecutive year. In a statement, the foundation emphasized its dedication to uplifting communities and supporting the Alliance for Children’s Rights, which has been advocating for vulnerable children since 1992.
Personal Connections and Long-Standing Friendship
Meghan and Kelly's friendship spans nearly two decades, having been introduced through Meghan's ex-husband, Trevor Engelson. Kelly has described Meghan as an “amazing, nurturing, fun, loving human,” particularly emphasizing her support during the challenging times following George's death. The two families share a close bond, with Meghan referring to Kelly's daughter, Lily, as "our other favorite Lily," a nod to her own daughter, Princess Lilibet.
Official Statements and Responses
Kelly McKee Zajfen expressed her heartfelt appreciation for Meghan and Harry's support, stating, “Thank you for holding Georgie in your hearts and helping us carry his light forward.” The event not only served as a tribute to George but also reinforced the importance of community support in addressing the needs of vulnerable children.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's the greatest honour that you chose to celebrate the Alliance For Children's Rights in Georgie's name,” — Kelly McKee Zajfen, Co-founder of Alliance of Moms
- “Proudly supporting the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament” — Archewell Foundation Statement
- “Meg & H, you continue to amaze me with your commitment to community and your fierce loyalty and love in friendship.” — Kelly McKee Zajfen
The George Zajfen Tennis Tournament stands as a poignant reminder of community resilience and the enduring bonds of friendship, while also highlighting the critical need for support systems for children in foster care.
