King Charles III officially opened the 23rd Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on Thursday, marking the start of a streamlined 10-day competition aimed at reducing costs while preserving the event's competitive spirit.
About 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories will compete for 215 gold medals across 10 sports and six para sports in the Scottish city, which is hosting the Commonwealth Games for the second time after staging them in 2014.
The king, accompanied by Queen Camilla, made a theatrical entrance by emerging from a Tardis, the iconic time machine from the British science fiction series Doctor Who, setting a lighthearted tone for the opening ceremony before taking his seat inside the 14,000-capacity OVO Hydro arena.
"As we gather, we celebrate the dedication and talent of every athlete and team. Your perseverance inspires us, and we eagerly anticipate your achievements in the coming days," Charles said in addressing the athletes.
"As we share our love of sport, and our planet, let us build a harmonious and durable future for our families and each other.
