Prince Harry has suffered a significant setback as a petition has been initiated following a decision described as deeply distressing. Prince Harry's hopes of receiving the prestigious Pat Tillman Award have been dealt a devastating blow as a petition has been unleashed in response to his deeply hurtful selection. The decision to honor Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at a grand Hollywood event next month has sparked widespread disapproval, prompting concerned individuals to rally against his suitability for the accolade.
The award, named after the revered American NFL player-turned-soldier Pat Tillman, who tragically lost his life to friendly fire in 2004, was established to celebrate individuals who exemplify Tillman's legacy by selflessly serving others while maintaining a strong connection to sport. However, the Duke of Sussex’s recognition has ignited a firestorm of criticism in the United States, where he currently resides with his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Mary Tillman, Pat Tillman's mother, expressed her shock and dismay at the decision, questioning why such a controversial and divisive figure was chosen for the prestigious honor. She passionately argued that there are countless more deserving recipients within the veteran community—individuals who lack the vast financial resources, influential connections, and privileged status that Prince Harry possesses. In her view, it is these unsung heroes who truly deserve recognition for their extraordinary efforts in assisting fellow veterans.
ESPN expressed the decision to pay tribute to the Duke for his unwavering dedication to positively impacting the veteran community through the influential force of sports, manifested in his creation of the Invictus Games. In a statement, ESPN conveyed, "With the generous support of the Tillman Foundation, ESPN is bestowing honor upon Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, specifically for his remarkable efforts through the Invictus Games Foundation, which is commemorating its 10th anniversary in promoting the healing power of sports for military personnel and veterans worldwide. While we acknowledge that not everyone may agree with all the recipients chosen for any award, the Invictus Games Foundation carries out extraordinary work, and ESPN firmly believes that this cause is deserving of celebration."
However, despite this explanation, a petition has been launched urging ESPN to reconsider the decision. The petition argues that Harry has been involved in controversial situations that raise doubts about his suitability to receive such a prestigious honor. According to the petition, awarding this honor to someone who does not embody the true essence of the award diminishes its value and shows disrespect to the memory of Tillman.
A confidential source revealed to GB News, "It is incredibly painful that the family had no input in this decision. Pat Tillman was a unifying force for good, whereas Harry is a divisive figure. There are countless unsung heroes who are much more deserving."
Looking ahead, Harry's upcoming Invictus Games is scheduled to take place in Canada in 2025, with the possibility of the games returning to the UK in 2027 as a hosting bid has been submitted. During last year's tournament in Germany, three new countries—Israel, Colombia, and Nigeria—participated for the first time. Following the event, Harry and Meghan were extended an invitation to visit Nigeria. The Sussexes spent three days exploring major cities in Nigeria and engaging in Invictus-related activities, which some referred to as an unofficial royal tour.
