Britain's Prince Harry said the bond between a mother and son “transcends even the greatest losses” as he was honoured at this year’s Espy awards in the US. Harry received the Pat Tillman Award for Service, awarded by sports channel ESPN to individuals in the sporting world who have made significant contributions to the lives of others. Advertisement Harry 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.
Prince Harry receives the Pat Tillman Award For Service at the Espy Awards (Mark J Terrill/AP) 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. Advertisement Harry opened his speech by acknowledging the family of Mr Tillman, “especially Mrs Mary Tillman – Pat’s mother”, which comes after she had reportedly expressed her disapproval of his selection for the award. Advertisement “Her advocacy for Pat’s legacy is deeply personal, and one that I respect,” he said.
“The bond between a mother and son is eternal and transcends even the greatest losses.” It comes ahead of the anniversary of the death of his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Advertisement 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 Meghan Ma.