Prince Harry Defends Pat Tillman Award Amid Backlash
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Prince Harry Faces Backlash Over Controversial Pat Tillman Award at ESPYs
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, has once again found himself at the center of controversy. This time, it stems from his acceptance of the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY Sports Awards. The award, named after the late NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman, is meant to honor those who exemplify service and sacrifice. Harry, 39, is set to receive the accolade for his work with the Invictus Games Foundation, an organization he founded to support wounded veterans.
The decision to honor Prince Harry has sparked criticism from various quarters, including from Pat Tillman’s family. Mary Tillman, Pat’s mother, voiced her disapproval, stating there were “more fitting” recipients. In an interview with the Daily Mail, she expressed her shock, questioning why such a “controversial and divisive individual” was chosen for the award.
Prince Harry is the recipient of the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
— ESPN (@espn) July 12, 2024
The Duke of Sussex founded The Invictus Games, an international platform that supports wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women who are navigating both physical and invisible injuries. pic.twitter.com/M3F3Rmft4j
Pat Tillman left a promising NFL career to enlist in the U.S. Army following the September 11 attacks. Tragically, he was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in 2004. Prince Harry, who has faced public scrutiny for his critical remarks about the British royal family and his high-profile exit from royal duties, is now under fire for being deemed worthy of this honor.
Royal biographer Hugo Vickers also criticized the decision, suggesting that Harry “doesn’t need” the ESPY award. Vickers pointed out that the award is traditionally given to current and former professional athletes. “What he did with the Invictus Games was brilliant,” Vickers acknowledged, but added that the award has become tied up with Harry’s “need for reinvention and publicity.”
Critics argue that the Pat Tillman Award should be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to their country and community, reflecting Tillman’s own sacrifice. A petition with over 68,000 signatures has called for ESPN to rescind the award, citing Harry’s divisive actions and questioning his suitability.
"No matter the road ahead, we are here for you. We will leave no one behind.”
— ESPN (@espn) July 12, 2024
-Prince Harry after accepting the Pat Tillman Award for Service ❤️ pic.twitter.com/8VBXBggYP4
Social media has been rife with criticism towards the Prince, with many users expressing outrage over the decision. Some even speculated that Harry’s selection might be part of a “quid pro quo” deal due to his close association with Serena Williams, who is hosting the ESPYs this year. ESPN, however, defended their choice, highlighting Harry’s significant contributions through the Invictus Games Foundation.
In response to the backlash, Prince Harry released an emotional message reiterating his commitment to supporting wounded veterans. He also drew attention to the UK’s participation in the first-ever Winter Invictus Games, praising the resilience and determination of the 64-member team. “Team UK will join over 500 competitors from across 20 nations in this groundbreaking event,” he said, while avoiding direct comments on the controversy.
Despite the criticism, Prince Harry remains dedicated to his cause. His work with the Invictus Games has been widely appreciated for its positive impact on the veteran community. The ESPY Awards, broadcast live on ABC, will feature Harry alongside other honorees, including former athletes Steve Gleason and Dawn Staley, both of whom have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
As the Duke of Sussex prepares to accept the Pat Tillman Award, the scrutiny over his suitability for the honor continues to grow. Whether this award will bring more attention to the Invictus Games or further divide public opinion on Harry remains to be seen.
During the event, Harry received the award amidst earlier criticism, with Mary Tillman expressing her shock at his selection. Despite the controversy, Harry acknowledged Mary Tillman’s advocacy for her son’s legacy. He emphasized the award’s significance to wounded service members, stating, “This award belongs to them, not to me.”
Harry accepted the trophy from three service veterans injured during their tours of duty. Having served 10 years in the British military, including two tours in Afghanistan as a helicopter pilot, Harry’s military background resonated with the veterans present.
The ESPYs also honored other athletes, including A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, who won Best Women’s Sports Athlete, and JuJu Watkins, who took home Best Breakthrough Athlete. The award show, which started 30 minutes late due to a news conference by President Joe Biden, featured a mix of celebration and controversy, with Harry’s acceptance being a focal point of discussion.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
