ESPN is standing agency in its choice to honor Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at this month’s ESPYs … doubling down and saying the Duke of Sussex is a rightful recipient of the distinction.
As we beforehand reported, Tillman’s mom, Mary, was dissatisfied with this yr’s choose for the award … saying there have been loads of lesser-known candidates that deserve some recognition — and referring to Harry as “controversial and divisive” within the course of.
ESPN expertise Pat McAfee additionally dogged the choice … claiming it felt just like the community was purposely attempting to strike an issue.
The outlet received wind of all of the outrage … and launched an announcement additional explaining why Harry earned the award by means of all of the work he is accomplished along with his yearly sports activities occasion for injured or sick army members.
“ESPN, with the help of the Tillman Basis, is honoring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, particularly for the work of The Invictus Video games Basis because it celebrates its tenth yr selling therapeutic by means of the facility of sport for army service members and veterans around the globe,” the outlet mentioned to TMZ Sports activities.
“Whereas we perceive not everybody will agree with all honorees chosen for any award, The Invictus Video games Basis does unimaginable work and ESPN believes it is a trigger price celebrating.”
After all, Tillman left his NFL profession behind to affix the Military following the 9/11 assaults … and tragically died in a pleasant fireplace incident in April 2004.
The award — which beforehand went to the medical professionals who saved Damar Hamlin‘s life in January 2023 — honors those that mirror Tillman’s legacy with their actions.
Mary instructed Each day Mail she was not consulted on this yr’s choose … however our sources say that is by no means been the case prior to now, as she will not be related to the Tillman Basis.
Like it or hate it — Harry’s getting that award on July 11.