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Prince William’s subtle swipe at Harry after Philip’s death

The brothers are on rocky ground, indeed.
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After what has been a rocky few years for Prince Harry and Prince William, the royals have been forced to put on a united front as they reunite for Prince Philip’s funeral. 

But it seems as though one Duke can’t put the past behind him just yet, already taking a subtle swipe at his brother. 

WATCH: Prince Andrew reveals how the Queen is coping without Prince Philip

In the wake of their grandfather’s passing, Prince Harry has left Meghan Markle behind to return to the UK in preparation for the funeral. It is the first time the rogue royal will have seen his older brother since the bombshell Oprah Winfrey interview and, let’s just say, it is certainly not water under the Buckingham Palace moat bride. 

Indeed, Prince William has made his thoughts on Harry’s recent choices VERY clear. And it was all through his statement about Prince Philip. 

While both brothers have penned tributes to honour their grandfather, William’s seemed a bit more targeted than Harry’s.

Posting on his official Archewell website, Prince Harry wrote: “My grandfather was a man of service, honour and great humour. He was authentically himself, with a seriously sharp wit, and could hold the attention of any room due to his charm – and also because you never knew what he might say next.”

He also gave us a glimpse into his personal life with the longest reigning consort, writing, “He was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right ’til the end.” 

Prince William, on the other hand, couldn’t help but get in a slight dig at Harry’s expense when penning his own statement.

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The Kensington Royal Instagram account shared a snap of Prince Philip and Prince George, taken by Kate Middleton herself. (Credit: Instagram)

The Duke of Cambridge’s tribute accompanied a sweet photo of Prince Philip and Prince George – captured by Kate Middleton herself – shared to the Kensington Royal Instagram page.

It read: “My grandfather’s century of life was defined by service – to his country and Commonwealth, to his wife and Queen, and to our family.”

Fans couldn’t help but notice the emphasis on a life of service, suggesting it was a subtle dig at Harry’s decision to leave his duty behind and jet off to California. 

Prince William continued: “I feel lucky to have not just had his example to guide me, but his enduring presence well into my own adult life – both through good times and the hardest days.”

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Prince Harry has returned to the UK to mourn his grandfather, Prince Philip. (Credit: Getty)

He went on to emphasise how glad he was that his wife, Kate Middleton, had a chance to get to know Prince Philip and fondly recognised the special memories his children made with their great grandpa. The royal also gave a special mention to Philip’s “mischievous” sense of humour. 

As one final sucker punch to his younger brother, William ended the statement with: “Catherine and I will continue to do what he would have wanted and will support The Queen in the years ahead. I will miss my Grandpa, but I know he would want us to get on with the job.”

Fans were quick to wave their Team Cambridge flags in the comments, voicing their support for the heir to the throne.

“What a beautiful and respectful statement,” one user penned 

“Moving works from our future King and what a King you’ll be. Prince Philip would be proud.” another added. 

“Beautiful tribute to your Grandfather. You’re a wonderful grandson & asset to the Monarchy.” a third chimed in.

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Prince Harry and Prince William will be forced to put on a united front as they pay respects to their grandfather’s legacy. (Credit: Getty)

Prince Philip passed away on Friday, 9th April, 2021. 

The sad news was broken via a statement from the Palace, which read: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.” 

A few members of the Firm have since gathered for a small service to honour the consort. Among the attendees was the controversial Prince Andrew who revealed how the Queen is coping through this troubling time. 

“I feel very sorry and supportive of my mother who’s feeling it probably more than everybody else.” the Duke told the BBC. “The Queen, as you would expect, is an incredibly stoic person and she described his passing as a miracle.”

He went on the explain that Her Majesty revealed that losing the great love of her life has “left a huge void in her heart”. 

The funeral is to be held on Saturday, April 17th at 3 PM UK time (12 AM midnight in Australia). It is to be broadcast on Channel 9 and on the ABC. 

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