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Prince Harry accepted the Pat Tillman Award at the ESPYs on Thursday night, a decision that sparked controversy in the past weeks.
The award was presented to Harry in recognition of the 10th anniversary of his Invictus Games, a sports competition platform for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women.
Prince Harry accepts award on behalf of Invictus Games
On stage, Prince Harry expressed humility and redirected the honor towards the veterans and service personnel involved with the Invictus Games.
"I stand here not as Prince Harry, Pat Tillman Award recipient, but rather 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 Foundation a reality," he stated.
"This award belongs to them, not to me."
Pat Tillman, for whom the award is named, was a former safety for the Arizona Cardinals who enlisted in the U.S. Army following the 9/11 attacks and was tragically killed in Afghanistan in 2004 due to friendly fire.
The award is designed to honor those who serve others in a way that reflects Tillman's legacy.
Mary Tillman criticized Prince Harry ahead of ceremony
Prior to the ceremony, the announcement of Prince Harry as the recipient drew criticism, particularly from Pat Tillman's mother, Mary.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, she expressed her dismay, saying, "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 recognized."
During his acceptance speech, Prince Harry acknowledged Mary Tillman's concerns and paid tribute to her advocacy.
"Her advocacy for Pat's legacy is deeply personal, and one that I respect. The bond between the mother and son is eternal, and transcends even the greatest losses," he remarked.
He also extended his gratitude to the Pat Tillman Foundation and the rest of the Tillman family.
Despite the controversy, ESPN defended its decision, noting that the award was presented to Prince Harry "with the support of the Tillman Foundation" and specifically for "the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world."
ESPN added, "While we understand not everyone will agree with all honorees selected for any award, The Invictus Games Foundation does incredible work and ESPN believes this is a cause worth celebrating."