Prince Harry Honors Pat Tillman’s Mom in Moving ESPYs Speech

Prince Harry delivered a powerful speech at the 2024 ESPYs on Thursday night, paying homage to Pat Tillman‘s mother despite her previous scathing criticism of him.

ESPN announced weeks ago that the Duke of Sussex would receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the annual show. Shortly after, Mary Tillman expressed her shock and disapproval of the decision, branding Harry as “a controversial and divisive individual.”

However, Harry chose to take the high road. As he stood on stage at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, he took a moment to acknowledge Mary Tillman.

“Her advocacy for Pat’s legacy is deeply personal and one that I respect,” he said to the crowd filled with A-list celebrities. “The bond between a mother and son is eternal and transcends even the greatest losses.”

Harry also thanked Pat’s widow, Marie Tillman Shelton, before discussing the reason he was honored with the award—his role in creating The Invictus Games Foundation, which aids wounded and injured veterans.

Having served his country through two tours in Afghanistan, Harry expressed his gratitude for the men and women who have sacrificed immensely for their service.

“This award belongs to them,” he stated, “not to me.”

The audience, including Harry’s wife Meghan Markle, gave Harry a standing ovation both before and after his speech. Former Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III praised Harry’s words on social media.

Despite Mary Tillman’s initial criticism of the award recipient, past honorees supported the choice. U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Israel Del Toro Jr., who received the Tillman Award in 2017, called Harry a deserving recipient.

ESPN defended its decision in the wake of Mary Tillman’s criticism. In a statement on July 1, the network said that Prince Harry and his foundation perform “incredible work” and that it is a cause worthy of celebration.