S Poddar
Meghan Markle’s secret talent was put on full display in a recent Netflix documentary series, Polo, which delves deep into the world of equestrian sport, a passion of her husband, Prince Harry. Premiering on December 10, the five-part series draws viewers into the glamorous world of polo as it follows some of the sport’s top players ahead of the prestigious 2024 U.S. Open Polo Championship in Wellington, Florida. While the series did not have the same buzz of their 2022 documentary, it gave an unexpected and delightful look at one of Meghan’s lesser-known skills.
The series also allowed Prince Harry the opportunity to demonstrate his own skill, notably in riding, while taking part in a Royal Salute Polo Challenge charity match at which he supported his charity, Sentebale. More impressive was Meghan’s display of Spanish.
One particularly candid moment in which Meghan became animated discussing the sports of polo with renowned player Adolfo Cambiaso, who competed with Harry. This came after Harry let it slip to Cambiaso that his wife spoke Spanish, leaving the legendary player visibly surprised. He asked, “Really?” before Meghan and Adolfo quickly slipped into a rapid exchange of Spanish, impressing all those around them.
Meghan recalled her sojourn in Argentina, telling that “I lived there about 20 years ago. In Palermo Viejo. Las Canitas too,” indicating that her understanding of the language is rooted in her college experience at Northwestern University, where she interned at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires. She also spent a study abroad term in Madrid, Spain, perfecting her Spanish.
Harry was thrilled that his wife was fluent and could continue to narrate. “That’s great. That’s where the polo fields were.” Meghan had expressed love for “the 25th of May,” Argentina’s national day. The more she spoke about her connection with Argentina, the deeper it seemed to grow.
As their conversation ended, Cambiaso turned teasingly to Harry and asked, “Do you speak Spanish?” Meghan playfully turned to her husband. “He knows I don’t!” she said, eliciting a chuckle from the husband, who then confessed, “Well, yes. A little, a little.” The lighthearted banter drew laughter from others around them, which displayed a warm, carefree atmosphere between the two spouses.
Meghan’s ability to speak in Spanish was interesting enough but also a demonstration of what she had put in and was able to extract in those years. Beyond the humanitarian work that had made her famous, and beyond acting and public appearances, that candid moment showcased a very personal and intellectual aspect of the Duchess of Sussex many had never really known until then.
Meghan and Harry have often in their public life flashed their natural chemistry and the strong bond they share, and moments like these remind fans how the everyday dynamics bring them together. Their sharing lighthearted exchanges and respect for each other’s talents is a reflection of their strong relationship. Meghan’s fluency in Spanish is just another aspect of her complex personality; indeed, her time spent in Argentina and Spain has obviously left its mark.
While Polo may not have managed to do the same in terms of drama as in the previous projects of the Duke and Duchess, it did manage to present an intimate look into their world that allowed the fans to view the personality of the royal couple. For those who have always admired Meghan’s poise and grace, this candid moment of speaking Spanish with such ease and confidence is only one more thing that charms her.
At a time when the world seems to view celebrity through sensational lenses, it’s refreshing to witness Meghan Markle being celebrated for a talent beyond the capacity of most other celebrities. Whether she is with the community, highlighting her philanthropic endeavors, or just impressing her audience with her linguistic skills, Meghan continues to wow and capture her audience through many talents and warmth.
For those who tuned into Polo, this was their window into the life of Meghan, only she came across as less calculated in their public appearances than before. The story here was not one of calculated construct, but rather about who Meghan is and is being within her relationships and her abilities. The series focuses on polo, but subtly also shows the life of a woman who continues to define the way a role is conducted within public eye. Whether it is through her linguistic skills or unwavering support for her husband’s charitable endeavors, Meghan Markle remains a figure of fascination and inspiration for many. This unscripted moment of Meghan’s conversation in Spanish reminds us that she’s not just the Duchess of Sussex — she’s a woman with her own story, experiences, and remarkable talents that are as captivating as the life she shares with Harry.
