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New York Post
Did Venus Williams snub Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at the 2024 ESPYs?
By Eric Todisco,
18 hours ago
Is Venus Williams fed up with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle? Not so fast.
Some fans think the tennis superstar, 44, snubbed the Sussexes at the 2024 ESPY Awards last week when Harry, 39, was honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
In a ESPN video from the event, Venus initially remained in her seat and didn’t clap for Harry as he was called to the stage. Later in the clip, however, Venus is seen standing next to Markle, 42, during Harry’s speech.
Prince Harry wins an award at the 2024 ESPYs. ESPN Meghan Markle cheering for Prince Harry. ESPN Venus William doesn’t stand for Prince Harry. ESPN
Despite her support, some viewers took to social media to react to the moment.
Serena Williams with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the 2024 ESPYs. Getty Images for W+P
“Please, Harry and Meghan, try not to breathe too much tonight,” the athlete joked on stage, adding, “This is my night and I don’t want to be overshadowed by accusations you guys are taking up too much oxygen.”
Harry and Markle were seen smiling after Serena made the remarks.
Serena and Venus Williams at the 2024 ESPY Awards. Variety via Getty Images
The award Harry won is named after Pat Tillman — the ex-NFL player who enlisted in the US Army after 9/11 and was killed in Afghanistan in 2004.
Many objected to Harry being named as the recipient of the award, including Tillman’s mother, Mary Tillman.
“I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award,” she told the Daily Mail last month. “There are recipients that are far more fitting. Individuals are working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans.”
Prince Harry wins the Pat Tillman Award For Service. AP Mary Tillman. Tribune News Service via Getty Images
Former royal butler Grant Harrold exclusively told The Post that Harry did so to “stand up for what he believes in.”
Pat Tillman. AP
“I thought he was going to decline it because that’s just his nature, but maybe Harry has got to a point where he’s just decided he’s going to do what he wants and as I said, because of his military background and because of the Invictus Games, it’s something he feels really passionate about,” said Harrold.
“He’s accepting the award on the behalf of military personnel, so in a weird way he probably sees it as his duty to accept it,” Harrold added.
Despite the backlash, Harry mentioned Mary in his speech. “[Mary’s] 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.”
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