Prince Harry Award Sparks Controversy in US

The upcoming ESPY Awards will feature a sports event hosted by the channel. EspenPrince Harry is set to receive the award. Pat Tillmancreated in 2014 in honor of the former NFL player who was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2004. The award is given each year to “an individual with a strong connection to the sport who has served others in a way that reflects the legacy of Pat Tillman.” But the announcement of the nomination has sparked controversy, with some critics of the Duke of Sussex launching a petition to have it rescinded.

Pat Tillman’s mother, Mary TillmanShe was the first to criticize the decision with her statements to daily Mail“I am surprised that they chose such a controversial and divisive person to receive this award. There are so many deserving recipients, people who work in the veterans community and do extraordinary things to help them. These people don’t have the money, the resources, the connections, the privileges that Prince Harry has. I think that’s the kind of person who deserves this recognition.“

Does Harry deserve this distinction?

This decision by the ESPY Awards has caused a lot of controversy in the United States, among other things because of the lyrics: Pat McAfeeformer NFL player and contributor to EspenWho attacked the network committee, questioning the reason for its decision and denouncing the lack of consideration for Americans in the selection process. In one of the debates about him, the commentator said: Boston Connor He described the decision as follows: “This is probably the most shameful thing I have ever seen in my entire life.”

In response, the ESPY Awards Committee, represented by Kate JacksonVice President of Production Espen“These honorees have used their fame to change the world and make it more inclusive for marginalized and struggling communities, demonstrating incredible resilience, positivity and perseverance. We are thrilled to celebrate them at the 2024 ESPYs,” he said, specifically referring to the Invictus Games, a multi-sport event for wounded servicemen, veterans and people with disabilities, co-founded by Prince Harry.

The ESPY Awards are scheduled to take place on July 11 in Los Angeles and will be hosted by Serena Williams.Tennis champion and close friend of the Duke and his wife Meghan Markle.

Original article published by Vanity Fair France. Access here.