Prince Harry will be honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYS, which will be hosted by tennis legend Serena Williams. The award is given to a person with a strong connection to sports who has served others in a way that echoes the legacy of former NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman, according to ESPN.
The Duke of Sussex is receiving the award in recognition of his tireless work in making a positive impact on the veteran community through the power of sport. Prince Harry served in the British armed forces for a decade before founding the Invictus Games Foundation, which has created an international platform to support wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women.
Former NFL safety Steve Gleason, who has been battling ALS since 2011, will receive the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage, while legendary basketball coach Dawn Staley will receive the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance.
The Invictus Games, now in their 10th year, see wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women—both serving and veterans—compete across different sports. According to ESPN, the Invictus Games have transcended borders and impacted lives across every continent, bringing together competitors from 23 nations, with continued support and programming throughout the year.
Last year, the Pat Tillman Award was given to the Buffalo Bills Training Staff after they saved the life of Damar Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest on the field and made a miraculous return to the NFL. Other previous winners include Manchester United and England star Marcus Rashford and former marine Kirstie Ennis.
ESPN’s Kate Jackson stated, “It’s our privilege to recognize three incredible individuals – Steve Gleason, Dawn Staley, and Prince Harry. These honorees have used their platforms to change the world and make it more inclusive for marginalized and suffering communities, demonstrating incredible resilience, positivity, and perseverance, and we’re thrilled to celebrate them at The 2024 ESPYS.”
Prince Harry, who is now based in Los Angeles with his wife Meghan and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, has accepted several high-profile awards in recent years. Earlier this year, he was named an inductee into the ‘Living Legends of Aviation’ and, in 2022, the Duke and Duchess were celebrated at the Ripple of Hope Awards for their work to battle racism and oppression.
Prince Harry will receive another honor next month, with Meghan’s close friend Serena Williams hosting the ESPYS.