Prince Harry's beautiful tribute to Diana as he receives controversial Pat Tillman award
The Duke of Sussex made mention of his 'eternal bond' with his mother, but not everyone was pleased to see the Prince take the gong.
Prince Harry told the audience at the ESPY Awards that the bond between a mother and son “transcends even the greatest losses”, as he picked up the Pat Tillman award.
Despite his warm-spirited speech paying tribute to the late Princess Diana, the naming of the Duke as the winner of the award was not universally well received.
The mother of Pat Tillman - who was an ex-NFL star and US war hero killed in Afghanistan - condemned the decision to name the royal as the winner of the prize.
The gong was awarded by ESPN to people in sport that have made significant contributions to the lives of others.
The Prince was given the award for founding the Invictus Games a decade ago. The Invictus Games was set up to support servicemen and women injured in combat.
Pat's mother Mary criticised the decision, telling the Mail on Sunday last month: "I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award.
"There are recipients that are far more fitting. There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans.
"These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections or privilege that Prince Harry has. I feel that those types of individuals should be recognised."
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Prince Harry didn't shy away from the criticism, paying respects to the Tillman family, “especially Mrs Mary Tillman - Pat’s mother”.
“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.”
The 39-year-old, referencing the impact the Invictus Games has had, added: "While so much progress has been made since those first games, the world outside seems to be in an even more precarious state.
"We live in an age marked by polarisation and division. 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."
