Prince Harry risks 'exacerbating existing tensions' with one very ill-advised move

Prince Harry has risked "exacerbating existing tensions" with one key move during his appearance at this year's ESPY Awards in the US, following the huge backlash over his nomination, according to a PR expert.

The Duke of Sussex, who was joined by his wife, Meghan Markle, 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.

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.

During an emotional speech, the Duke said the bond between a mother and son "transcends even the greatest losses" as he paid tribute to his late mother, Princess Diana.

He also acknowledged the family of Mr Tillman, "especially Mrs Mary Tillman - Pat's mother", which comes after she had expressed her disapproval of his selection for the award.

The Prince said: "Her advocacy for Pat's legacy is deeply personal, and one that I respect. The bond between a mother and son is eternal and transcends even the greatest losses."

Pat Tillman was a former NFL player and US Army Ranger who was killed in Afghanistan in 2004 and the prestigious awards are named after him.

Elsewhere in his speech, Harry said: "I stand here not as Prince Harry, [but as a] voice on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation and the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have made the Invictus Games a reality. This award belongs to them, not to me."

He added: "The beauty of the Invictus Games lies in how it brings people together, no matter one's nationality, background, or personal struggles."

Last night's nomination has been shrouded in dramatic backlash, with a petition, counting just below 77,000 signatures at the time of writing, being set up urging the awards organisers to rethink their decision and Mary Tillman saying she was was "shocked" at Harry's nomination when there "are recipients that are far more fitting".

But the royal did attend the awards and also failed to address one "crucial" aspect in his speech according to a PR specialist.

Renae Smith, founder and director of the Atticism, told Express.co.uk that Prince Harry's attendance at the Pat Tillman Awards could have a mixed outcome which he could leverage with one swift move, which he did not do - address the controversy in his speech.

She said that while his appearance demonstrated his commitment to the cause and the Invictus Games, it could also "amplify negative sentiments and criticism" and make him appear as "defiant" or "dismissive of public opinion", which would, in turn, "exacerbate existing tensions".

Ms Smith explained: "On one hand, his presence would demonstrate his commitment to the cause and to the Invictus Games, reinforcing his dedication to veterans and their families. This could positively resonate with supporters who value his work and see him as a figure of genuine compassion and service."

"However, attending amidst backlash might also amplify negative sentiments and criticism. Critics may view his attendance as defiant or dismissive of public opinion, which could exacerbate existing tensions."

The expert stressed that it was "crucial" for the royal to address the controversy in his speech, which he did not do other than mention Pat Tillman's mother.

She said: "It is my professional opinion that it is crucial for Harry to address the controversy in his speech or through a statement, acknowledging the concerns while reaffirming his commitment to the cause."