Prince Harry brought his trademark humor to the NFL’s 2024 Awards ceremony, held Thursday, January 8 in Las Vegas.
Mere hours after making a whirlwind trip to see his ailing father King Charles in London, the Duke of Sussex lit up the stage to present the Walter Payton Man of the Year award.
Prince Harry at NFL Honors
In a surprise appearance, Prince Harry had the audience laughing as he drew comparisons between rugby and American football.
“Stole rugby from us and made it your own. Instead of passing it backward, just pass it forward. Why not wear pads and a helmet? Of course, have an offense and defense – that makes sense. And why not have a breather every 15 seconds? And you know what? Instead of a 10-month season, let’s just make it 18 weeks. Genius.”
Out of jokes, Harry paid tribute to the players for their achievements on and off the field.
“All kidding aside, what you guys do on and off the field is truly remarkable. You are role models for millions in the way you carry yourselves and the way you give back,” he remarked.
Recipient Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward expressed shock at Prince Harry’s presence, exclaiming “Prince freakin’ Harry. I’m in shock.”
Prince Harry The Duke of Sussex
Speech At NFLpic.twitter.com/EVUzAeMR7o
— My Opinion – Sussex Warrior 🐊 (@my_opnion) February 9, 2024
Harry’s attendance at the awards follows his brief trip to the UK to visit his father, King Charles III, following the announcement of his cancer.
The meeting with his father did not take long and lasted only 45 minutes.
It was their first in-person meeting in over 16 months amidst strained relations.