ESPN respond to Pat Tillman’s mother’s concerns over the award given to Prince Harry
The Duke of Sussex is scheduled to receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPY Awards on July 11.
This award, named in memory of the late NFL star Pat Tillman, who enlisted in the Army following the events of September 11 and was killed in combat in 2004, acknowledges individuals with a significant affiliation to sports who have subsequently dedicated themselves to serving others in a manner that reflects Tillman’s legacy.
ESPN announced in June that Prince Harry — who himself served for 10 years in the British Army — was selected for the award due to his “tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport” with The Invictus Games, his Olympics-style tournament for wounded veterans.
After Prince Harry was announced to receive the honor of the Pat Tillman Award, Tillman’s mother spoke out about the decision, telling Daily Mail she was “shocked” by the choice.
“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.”
ESPN meanwhile said it has the support of the Pat Tillman Foundation, which was founded by his widow, Marie. She currently serves as chair of the foundation’s board.
ESPN responded to the criticism, telling The Hollywood Reporter in a statement, “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. 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.”
The statement continues, while Tillman’s mother said she was not consulted about the recipient, she has also not previously been involved with the selection process of who is honored.
Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games in 2014. Invictus is a multi-sport event for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, both active service and veterans.
The Invictus Games wrote via X about the upcoming honor, “Thank you to the @ESPYS for honouring 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.”
The Duke of Sussex to Receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service for Founding the Invictus Games Foundation at The 2024 ESPYS