ESPY Awards host Serena Williams addressed backlash against attendees Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with a slick joke.
The ESPY Awards took place on Thursday, July 11th 2024, not only to celebrate the previous year of sports but also to commend the humanitarian efforts that have helped make a change to lives around the world. The ceremony saw many special guests in attendance, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Harry was there to receive the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for his work with The Invictus Games. The decision to bestow the honor upon the 39-year-old royal stirred quite the backlash following its announcement, but if host Serena Williams‘ playful joke is anything to go by, backlash may as well be the man’s middle name…
Serena Williams serves fiery Prince Harry and Meghan Markle joke at ESPY Awards
Serena, the former professional tennis player and sporting icon, took over hosting duties for the glamorous ESPY Awards ceremony and took the time to acknowledge her good friend Meghan and husband Harry courtesy of her opening monologue.
“It’s, well, actually only pretty often that I get to be in a room with actual royalty, and tonight is no exception,” she teased before busting out a memorable joke and a dig at the pair’s haters.
“Prince Harry and Meghan are here. Let’s give it up for them. But please, Harry and Meghan, try not to breathe too much tonight. Because this is my night, and I don’t want to be overshadowed by the accusations that you guys are taking up too much oxygen, okay?”
The camera cuts back to the couple sharing a chuckle as the rest of the audience can be heard laughing. Clearly, the joke wasn’t lost on anybody.
Serena is essentially taking a swipe at her friends’ portrayal in the media and the comments frequently made by those who argue they seek attention. “Serena throwing shade at the British tabloids,” one fan tweeted in observation.
“Love Serena,” another reacted. “A true loyal friend.”
Prince Harry voiced his respect for Pat Tillman’s mom in acceptance speech
When it was announced Harry was receiving the Pat Tillman Award, the decision was met with backlash.
The Award for Service is traditionally given to reward individuals and commemorate the legacy of former NFL player and US Army Ranger Pat Tillman. However, even Pat’s mother Mary released a statement 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.”
Despite this objection from Pat’s family, Harry took to the stage to receive the award and seized a moment to express how much respect he has for them, focusing a caring lens on Mary.
“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.”
Addressing why he was chosen to receive the honor, Harry’s speech included: “The truth is 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 a reality. This award belongs to them, not to me.”
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