Prince Harry may decline Pat Tillman Award, is ‘quite sad’ over ESPYs backlash: expert
nypost.comthe recipient of the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs.The Duke of Sussex, 39, is set to be honored at Thursday’s ceremony for his military experience and work on the Invictus Games.The announcement raised many eyebrows, including those of the late hero’s mom, Mary Tillman, who criticized ESPN and claimed she was never consulted about the decision.The father of two soon found himself at the center of controversy, and former royal butler Grant Harrold believes that he is now mulling over his options.“It’s interesting that Harry’s nod has ruffled feathers,” Harrold exclusively told The Post. “From my point of view, it’s a bit confusing.”Harrold said that Harry is no doubt “feeling quite sad about it,” adding that Harry — who quit royal life in 2020 — is “one of the most caring, kindest and most gentle people you could ever meet.”So much so, that it’s possible he will decline the prestigious award.“He’d never want to cause any upset,” Harrold said. “If he thinks that it is going to cause upset, then it is quite likely that he could decline the award . . .
because he’d never want to cause any upset and it would affect him hearing about the backlash.”“Only time will tell how he’ll respond but I’m sure it’s something he’ll be consulting his team and wife Meghan [Markle] about,” he added on behalf of Fruity Slots.ESPN has since defended its decision to honor Harry, saying his work on the Invictus Games “is a cause worth celebrating.”The award is handed out to individuals who have made significant contributions in the world, which echo the legacy of the former NFL player and US Army Ranger Pat Tillman, who enlisted after the Sept.
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