Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were all smiles as they attended the 2024 ESPY Awards, where the Duke of Sussex will be recognised for his work with the Invictus Games

Meghan Markle beamed with pride as she accompanied Prince Harry to the 2024 ESPY Awards, where he was honoured for his work with the Invictus Games.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were all smiles as they appeared on screen amid backlash over Harry’s award. Meghan looked stunning in a white halterneck dress, her hair slicked back into a neat bun, and accessorised simply with diamond earrings and her wedding ring. Harry stood by her side, looking dapper in a black suit, white shirt, and tie.

Prince Harry was to receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service at this year’s ceremony. The award is named after ex-footballer Pat Tillman, who famously turned down a $3.8million contract to join the US Army following the 9/11 attacks.

The pair were playfully mocked by friend and host Serena Williams (
Image:No credit)

Tragically, Tillman lost his life 20 years ago due to friendly fire in Afghanistan. The united front displayed by Harry and Meghan at the ceremony comes amidst a wave of criticism following the announcement that the Duke would be receiving the award, reports the Mirror US.

Pat Tillman’s mother, Mary, confessed her surprise at the decision to honour such a “controversial” figure like Harry with the award. She expressed her shock at the choice and revealed she hadn’t been consulted about the Duke of Sussex receiving the award in her late son’s name.

Prince Harry has been recognised for the Invictus Games (Image:AFP via Getty Images)
“I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award,” she stated. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Mary added: “There are recipients that are far more fitting. There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans.”

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“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.”

The ESPY Awards (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly) is run by the sports TV network, ESPN, and honours unsung heroes in the sporting field. Last year, the Pat Tillman award was given to members of the Buffalo Bills football team training staff after they managed to revive a dying player on the field.