The Duke of Sussex has been honoured on the 2024 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, joined by spouse the Duchess of Sussex the place they rubbed shoulders with sports activities stars, together with Serena Williams, who was internet hosting.
The father-of-two gave an emotional speech through which he mentioned the “everlasting bond” between moms and sons, and got here near tears as he listened to former Pat Tillman Award recipients, and Invictus Video games rivals, Kirstie Ennis, Israel Del Toro and Elizabeth Marks give a strong introduction.
© Frazer Harrison
© Kevin Mazur“I would prefer to acknowledge the Tillman household, and particularly Mrs Mary Tillman, Pat’s mom, her advocacy of Pat’s legacy is deeply private and one I respect. The bond between mom and son is everlasting, and transcends even the best losses,” mentioned Prince Harry as he started a four-minute lengthy speech; Mrs Tillman had beforehand criticised the selection to honor Prince Harry.
“The reality is I don’t stand right here as Prince Harry, Pat Tillman award recipient, however as a voice on behalf of the Invictus video games basis, and the hundreds of veterans and repair personnel from over 20 nations who’ve made the Invictus Video games a actuality.
“This award belongs to them and to not me.”
© Frazer Harrison
© ESPN
© Frazer HarrisonThe award is given to people within the sporting world who’ve made important contributions to the lives of others. The Duke, who stepped again from royal duties in 2020, was recognised for founding the Invictus Video games a decade in the past to assist injured and sick servicemen and girls – each on energetic obligation and veterans – who’re navigating bodily and invisible accidents.
He continued: “That mentioned, it’s of nice significance to me to focus on these allies, athletes and their wonderful households for his or her achievements, spirit and braveness at each alternative particularly on nights like this in entrance of individuals such as you.
“Moments like these assist us attain those that want Invictus probably the most, and cut back greater than 20 veterans a day taking their very own lives on this nation alone.”
© Kevin Mazur“The spirit of the Invictus Video games transcends race and time and borders, it’s all group and exudes function. Whereas a lot progress has been made out of these first video games, the world exterior appears to be in a extra precarious state,” he mentioned, including: “Our group challenges that and proves that unity is not only doable however formidable, the great thing about the Invictus Video games is the way it brings individuals collectively.”
He concluded by saying that the Invictus Video games is there for everybody, and would “go away no-one behind”.
© Kevin Mazur
© Kevin MazurUpon her arrival, Meghan was pictured hugging shut pal Serena earlier than the ceremony kicked off, and Prince Harry and Meghan acquired a shout-out from Serena throughout her opening monologue, with the pair laughing from their front-row seats in Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre.
“It is, effectively, solely fairly typically that I get to be in a room with precise royalty,” she quipped, referencing her friendship with the pair.
© ESPN“And tonight is not any exception, Prince Harry and Meghan are right here, let’s give it up for them!” she continued.
However please, Harry and Meghan, strive to not breathe an excessive amount of as a result of it is my evening, and I do not need to be overshadowed by the accusation that you’re taken up an excessive amount of oxygen.”
© ESPNForward of the ceremony, ESPN vice-president of manufacturing Kate Jackson mentioned: “It is our privilege to recognise three unbelievable people – Steve Gleason, Daybreak Staley and Prince Harry. These honourees have used their platforms to vary the world and make it extra inclusive for marginalised and struggling communities, demonstrating unbelievable resilience, positivity and perseverance, and we’re thrilled to rejoice them on the 2024 ESPYs.”
ESPN mentioned Harry is being honoured for his “tireless work in making a optimistic impression for the veteran group by the ability of sport”.
The honour comes after Harry travelled to the UK in Could for a particular occasion at St Paul’s Cathedral to mark ten years of the Invictus Video games. He served on two frontline excursions in Afghanistan and spent a decade within the British armed forces.
The Pat Tillman Award for Service is known as after former NFL participant and US Military Ranger Pat Tillman, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2004. The 2024 ESPYs are being hosted by tennis champion, Serena, who can also be a detailed pal of the Duchess of Sussex.
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