Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is set to receive the Pat Tillman Award at the 2024 ESPYs next month, but the decision has sparked considerable backlash. Critics, including the mother of the late athlete Pat Tillman, argue that other individuals are more deserving of the honor.

Mary Tillman, the mother of Pat Tillman, expressed her dismay at the selection. “I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award,” she told the Daily Mail. “There are recipients that are far more fitting. There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans.”

Her sentiments echo the growing frustration among many who feel the award should go to someone more aligned with Tillman’s legacy. A petition on Change.org urging ESPN to “Rethink Awarding the Pat Tillman Award to Prince Harry” has garnered nearly 20,000 signatures. Patti Mickel, who started the petition, highlighted Tillman’s “undeniably remarkable” patriotism and ultimate sacrifice, qualities she feels Prince Harry lacks.

Mary Tillman further criticized the disparity in resources and connections, noting, “These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections, or privilege that Prince Harry has. I feel that those types of individuals should be recognized.”

Prince Harry’s decade-long military service and his founding of the Invictus Games, an international multi-sport event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, have been central to his public identity. However, critics argue that his recent controversies and perceived self-centeredness in his role with the Invictus Games undermine his suitability for the award.

The Pat Tillman Award is intended to honor a person with a strong connection to sports who has served others in a way that echoes the legacy of Pat Tillman, a former NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger who was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in 2004. Tillman left a promising NFL career to serve in the military following the September 11 attacks, demonstrating a profound commitment to his country.

A supporter of the petition commented, “Tillman sacrificed his life for duty and country while Harry walked away from duty and country & spit on his commander in chief, country, duty & family on his way out.” This statement reflects a broader sentiment that Prince Harry’s actions, including publicly revealing military kills and personal family controversies, are not in line with the spirit of the award.

Despite the controversy, Prince Harry’s contributions to the veteran community through initiatives like the Invictus Games cannot be overlooked. The award has highlighted the ongoing debate about what constitutes service and sacrifice, and who is truly deserving of such honors.

As the ESPYs approach, the decision to award Prince Harry will continue to be scrutinized, with many watching to see how the Duke of Sussex addresses the criticisms and how the legacy of Pat Tillman is honored in the process.