Prince Harry has captured public attention after being selected to receive an ESPY Award, created in honor of Pat Tillman. The choice has been the subject of criticism by Tillman’s mother.
The youngest son of King Charles III will be honored at a ceremony taking place in Hollywood this month.
This award commemorates Pat Tillman, a former American football player who left behind a lucrative contract to join the U.S. Army after the 9/11 attacks.
Criticism of Prince Harry receiving the ESPY Award
The granting of the Pat Tillman Award to Prince Harry has generated a wide spectrum of opinions.
Mary Tillman, Pat’s mother, expressed surprise and disagreement with the choice of Prince Harry for this honor, citing his controversial and divisive nature.
“I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award,” his mother, Mary, told The Daily Mail.
Despite his recognized work with veterans through the Invictus Games, Tillman suggests that there are other, less privileged individuals whose contributions to the veteran community also deserve recognition.
“There are recipients that are far more fitting,” she said. “There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans.”
On the other hand, ESPN, backed by the Tillman Foundation, defends its decision by highlighting the positive impact that Prince Harry has had on the veteran community, especially during the tenth anniversary of the Invictus Games.
“ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honoring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, specifically for the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world,” an ESPN spokesperson said in a statement.
Although the decision has been questioned by some, including Pat Tillman’s mother, and there have been calls to reconsider the award, ESPN maintains its stance, emphasizing Prince Harry’s ongoing commitment to veterans and his beneficial influence on them through the Invictus Games.
What are the ESPY Awards?
The ESPY Awards, representing Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly, are a distinction awarded by the renowned ESPN network.
These awards not only celebrate outstanding athletes but also honor lesser-known heroes who demonstrate exceptional perseverance and dedication.
A notable example is the Pat Tillman Award, which has traditionally been given to individuals who, away from the spotlight, have shown extraordinary courage and commitment.
In contrast to public figures like Prince Harry, these recipients are often people whose stories of bravery and resilience resonate strongly in the sports world and beyond.
Former NFL safety Steve Gleason, South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, will be honored during the @ESPYS for their courage, perseverance and service with three special accolades 🏆
More on their awards: https://t.co/b5mCyS5BZ6 pic.twitter.com/aXiPA1li7e
— ESPN (@espn) June 27, 2024
For instance, last year’s recipient was the Buffalo Bills’ coaching staff, who heroically saved a player’s life on the field.
To date, there have been no official statements from Prince Harry or his inner circle regarding the current controversy.
Therefore, it remains to be seen how events unfold and whether there will be any changes in the award presentation or if the prince will attend the ceremony as initially planned.