ESPN's decision to present Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award has sparked significant backlash, drawing criticism from both the public and Pat Tillman's family. The award, which honors individuals who have used their connection to the sports world to positively impact the lives of others, is set to be given to Prince Harry for his work with The Invictus Games Foundation.
The controversy began with a petition calling for ESPN to reconsider their decision, amassing more than 42,000 signatures. Pat Tillman's mother, Mary, expressed her disapproval in an interview with the Daily Mail, stating, "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."
Mary Tillman emphasized that many individuals working in the veteran community lack the resources and connections that Prince Harry has. "These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections, or privilege that Prince Harry has. I feel that those types of individuals should be recognized," she said.
In response to the criticism, ESPN issued a statement defending their choice. "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," the network stated. "While we understand not everyone will agree with all honorees selected for any award, The Invictus Games Foundation does incredible work and ESPN believes this is a cause worth celebrating."
Despite this defense, the decision has sparked a significant conversation in America. Former NFL player Pat McAfee, who previously worked for ESPN, voiced his concerns, saying, "A lot of conversation about Pat Tillman's name, American hero ... Now there's an award named after him, as there should be in the sports world because that is somebody who is the definition of selfless...It's going to Prince Harry, who I don't even think is a prince anymore."
McAfee admitted to having limited knowledge about Prince Harry, jokingly referencing his familiarity with him from the satirical show "South Park" and the TV series "The Crown." His co-host, Boston Connor, labeled Prince Harry's nomination as "probably the most embarrassing thing I've seen in my entire life," while another team member, Ty Schmitt, called the awards "a gimmick" and argued that numerous deserving American military members were overlooked.
Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games in 2014, a multi-sport event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, both active service members and veterans. The Invictus Games Foundation acknowledged the upcoming honor on social media, stating, "Thank you to the @ESPYS for honoring the founding of the #InvictusGames Foundation by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex and our work to support the rehabilitation of the international wounded, injured or sick service community."
A spokesperson for Prince Harry declined to comment on the award. However, the backlash continued to grow, with critics arguing that Prince Harry's controversies and privileged background make him an unsuitable recipient of the award. A petition against the award claimed, "Awarding this honor to someone who does not reflect the award's intent diminishes its value and disrespects Tillman's memory."
Pat Tillman, an American football star who gave up a lucrative career to enlist in the U.S. Army after 9/11, was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in 2004. His sacrifice and service have made him a symbol of selflessness and patriotism.
One signatory of the petition, Tania Smith, stated, "Pat Tillman embodied service and sacrifice, doing his patriotic duty," adding, "Harry represents none of these qualities. He publicly disrespected his family, ran away from service to his country as a royal... He is unworthy of this award."
A source close to the Tillman family noted, "It's incredibly hurtful that the family had no say in this. Pat Tillman was a unifying force for good. Harry is divisive... There are many unsung heroes who are far more deserving."
