Mary Tillman criticizes ESPN's decision to honor Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award, arguing there were more fitting recipients and calling the Duke of Sussex a 'controversial and divisive' figure.

Tillman, whose son Pat Tillman is the namesake of the award, argues that other candidates, particularly those directly working within the veteran community, were more deserving. This decision has sparked significant controversy, including a petition with nearly 30,000 signatures asking ESPN to reconsider. While ESPN defends its choice, highlighting Harry's military service and the impact of the Invictus Games, critics like Tillman argue the award's integrity should reflect Pat Tillman’s legacy more accurately.

Mary Tillman, the mother of the late Pat Tillman, has voiced strong objections to ESPN's recent announcement of honoring Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award, labeling the Duke as a 'controversial and divisive' figure. Her criticism stems from the belief that the award, which bears her son's name, should be granted to someone whose contributions align more closely with Pat Tillman's legacy and values.

Tillman emphasized that there were numerous other worthy candidates who have made significant strides within the veteran community. She feels these individuals, through their direct work and impact, embody the spirit and dedication that the Pat Tillman Award aims to celebrate. She expressed disappointment that ESPN did not consult her before reaching their decision to award Prince Harry.

ESPN selected Prince Harry citing his 'tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport.' They pointed to his founding of the Invictus Games in 2014, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, as a key factor in their decision. Prince Harry, who has also served two tours in Afghanistan, has been recognized for his contributions to veterans through these games.

The Pat Tillman Award was established by ESPN in 2014 to honor individuals who have a strong connection to sports and have served others in ways that reflect the legacy of Pat Tillman. Pat Tillman, a former NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals, famously left his football career and a $3.6 million contract to enlist in the military after the September 11 attacks. He was tragically killed in 2004 in Afghanistan by friendly fire.

Despite the controversy, ESPN stands by its choice, with Kate Jackson, ESPN's Vice President of Production, underscoring that the award aims to recognize those who have used their platforms to create a more inclusive world. ESPN has highlighted the Invictus Games Foundation's work in fostering a sense of community and healing among injured veterans, asserting that such achievements merit celebration.

Notably, a petition urging ESPN to reconsider their decision had garnered nearly 30,000 signatures by Monday afternoon. The substantial public response indicates a significant portion of the community shares Mary Tillman's sentiment about the award’s intended purpose and rightful recipients.

Some analysts and public figures have also expressed their discontent with ESPN's decision. Pat McAfee, an ESPN analyst, openly criticized the decision, suggesting that granting the award to Prince Harry might have been an intentional move to provoke reactions. He also pointed out that Prince Harry is no longer a prince, questioning the relevance of his current title in relation to the award.

In response to the controversy, Prince Harry addressed the honor through a statement from the Invictus Games Foundation, stressing that the award was for the entire service community. He acknowledged the collective effort of the veterans and their families in making the Invictus Games successful and emphasized that their spirit and resilience were truly deserving of recognition.

The debate has brought to light deeper questions regarding the criteria and selection process for the Pat Tillman Award. While ESPN maintains that the Invictus Games and Prince Harry’s work reflect the principles the award stands for, critics continue to argue that the award should honor those who are more closely aligned with Pat Tillman’s own journey and sacrifices.

Ultimately, the awarding of the Pat Tillman Award to Prince Harry has sparked a broad discussion not only about the merits of individual contributions but also about how best to pay tribute to the legacy of a man who gave up a lucrative career to serve his country. This ongoing discourse underscores the importance of community perspectives in honoring such legacies.