The Duke of Sussex has been honoured at the 2024 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, joined by wife the Duchess of Sussex where they rubbed shoulders with sports stars, including Serena Williams, who was hosting.
The father-of-two gave an emotional speech in which he discussed the "eternal bond" between mothers and sons, and came close to tears as he listened to former Pat Tillman Award recipients, and Invictus Games competitors, Kirstie Ennis, Israel Del Toro and Elizabeth Marks give a powerful introduction.
"I'd like to acknowledge the Tillman family, and especially Mrs Mary Tillman, Pat's mother, her advocacy of Pat's legacy is deeply personal and one I respect. The bond between mother and son is eternal, and transcends even the greatest losses," said Prince Harry as he began a four-minute long speech; Mrs Tillman had previously criticised the choice to honor Prince Harry.
"The truth is I do not stand here as Prince Harry, Pat Tillman award recipient, but as a voice on behalf of the Invictus games foundation, and the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have made the Invictus Games a reality.
"This award belongs to them and not to me."
© Frazer Harrison
© ESPN
© Frazer HarrisonThe award is given to individuals in the sporting world who have made significant contributions to the lives of others. The Duke, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, was recognised for founding the Invictus Games a decade ago to support injured and sick servicemen and women – both on active duty and veterans – who are navigating physical and invisible injuries.
He continued: "That said, it is of great importance to me to highlight these allies, athletes and their amazing families for their achievements, spirit and courage at every opportunity especially on nights like this in front of people like you.
© Kevin Mazur"The spirit of the Invictus Games transcends race and time and borders, it is all community and exudes purpose. While so much progress has been made from those first games, the world outside seems to be in a more precarious state," he said, adding: "Our community challenges that and proves that unity is not just possible but formidable, the beauty of the Invictus Games is how it brings people together."
“It is a collective, built from courage and mutual respect, where athletes discover time and time again, the common denominator of their humanity. Having survived the crucible of armed combat, and forged through the challenge to rebuild bodies and minds impacted by conflict, they form a family.
“They exemplify the very best in all of us.”
He concluded by saying that the Invictus Games is there for everyone, and would "leave no-one behind".
© Kevin Mazur
© Kevin MazurUpon her arrival, Meghan was pictured hugging close friend Serena before the ceremony kicked off, and Prince Harry and Meghan got a shout-out from Serena during her opening monologue, with the pair laughing from their front-row seats in Hollywood's Dolby Theatre.
"It's, well, only pretty often that I get to be in a room with actual royalty," she quipped, referencing her friendship with the pair.
© ESPN"And tonight is no exception, Prince Harry and Meghan are here, let's give it up for them!" she continued.
But please, Harry and Meghan, try not to breathe too much because it's my night, and I don't want to be overshadowed by the accusation that you are taken up too much oxygen."
© ESPNAhead of the ceremony, ESPN vice-president of production Kate Jackson said: "It's our privilege to recognise three incredible individuals – Steve Gleason, Dawn Staley and Prince Harry. These honourees have used their platforms to change the world and make it more inclusive for marginalised and suffering communities, demonstrating incredible resilience, positivity and perseverance, and we're thrilled to celebrate them at the 2024 ESPYs."
ESPN said Harry is being honoured for his "tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport".
The honour comes after Harry travelled to the UK in May for a special event at St Paul's Cathedral to mark ten years of the Invictus Games. He served on two frontline tours in Afghanistan and spent a decade in the British armed forces.
The Pat Tillman Award for Service is named after former NFL player and US Army Ranger Pat Tillman, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2004. The 2024 ESPYs are being hosted by tennis champion, Serena, who is also a close friend of the Duchess of Sussex.
