'Stunned': Prince Harry Reacts to ESPY Award Controversy

Los Angeles (US): Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, is ‘stunned’ by the backlash he has received after broadcaster ESPN announced that he will be the recipient of the ‘Pat Tillman Award’ this year.

Following the announcement, Prince Harry has been subjected to heavy criticism with many urging the ESPN to award. Those around Prince Harry have mentioned that Prince Harry is stunned by the criticism he is receiving over the past few days.    

What is Pat Tillman Award ? 

The award is named after Pat Tillman, an American professional football player who played in the NFL, left his sports career and joined the US Army. He was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2004. In his honour, the award is given to such individuals with a notable connection to sports who have exemplified service in the way Pat Tillman served.  

Mother of Pat Tillman says “Not Consulted” 

Mary, mother of Pat Tillman, said that there were far more deserving candidates for the award.

“Shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual” she was quoted as saying as per Daily Mail report. Mary further added that she was not consulted by the broadcasters before naming Prince Harry for the awards. 

ESPN Defends Its Decision 

“ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honouring 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,” it said.

Harry’s Message before Receiving Award  

Harry is celebrating the UK's participation in the first-ever Winter Invictus Games. 

“Team UK will join over 500 competitors from across 20 nations in this groundbreaking event that expands the range and profile of winter adaptive sports.These games present an incredible opportunity for our courageous service personnel and veterans to demonstrate their skills in new challenges like alpine skiing, snowboarding and skeleton, as well as providing a truly memorable experience for their families,” Prince Harry said. 

Harry has been a controversial figure lately since the time he made contentious remarks about the The Royal Family on multiple platforms.