Prince Harry awarded for Invictus Games despite veteran’s mother’s criticism – and nods to ‘eternal bond’ with Diana

The Duke of Sussex said the bond between a mother and son “transcends even the greatest losses” as he accepted an award previously given to Marcus Rashford.

Prince Harry was honoured at a ceremony in the US despite the mother of the award’s namesake arguing others were more deserving.

The Duke of Sussex received the Pat Tillman Award for Service from sports channel ESPN, given to individuals in the sporting world who have made significant contributions to the lives of others.

The award is named after former NFL player and US Army Ranger Pat Tillman, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2004.

The Duke was recognised for founding the Invictus Games a decade ago to support injured and sick servicemen and women who are navigating physical and invisible injuries.

Tillman’s mother, Mary Tillman, had criticised the network’s choice, claiming there are others working in the veteran community who would have been more fitting.

Upon receiving is award Prince Harry thanked Tillman’s widow, Marie, for her attendance and acknowledged Mary Tillman.

‘Bond between mother and son is eternal’

“Her advocacy for Pat’s legacy is deeply personal and one that I respect,” he said, before making a nod to his mother Diana.

“The bond between a mother and son is eternal and transcends even the greatest losses.”

The 2024 ESPY (Excellence in Sport Performance Yearly) ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles was hosted by tennis champion Serena Williams, a friend of the Duchess of Sussex, who was also at the event.

During her opening monologue, Williams joked: “Please Harry and Meghan, try not to breathe too much tonight, because this is my night, and I don’t want to be overshadowed by the accusations that you guys are taking up too much oxygen.”

ESPN previously said Harry was being honoured for his “tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport”.

World ‘more precarious’ now

Harry, who served on two frontline tours in Afghanistan and spent 10 years in the British armed forces, said the world seems even more “precarious” than a decade ago.

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“We live in an age marked by polarisation and division,” he said.

“Conflicts rage around the globe. Anger and resentment towards those who are different seem to pervade societies everywhere.

“Our community challenges that. Our community proves that unity is not just possible, but formidable.

“The beauty of the Invictus Games lies in how it brings people together, no matter one’s nationality, background, or personal struggles.”

Past award recipients include Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, whose high-profile campaign persuaded the government to provide free meals to vulnerable youngsters through school holidays during the pandemic.