Prince Harry is reportedly feeling “sad” about the massive backlash he received after being named the winner of the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs.
The 39-year-old Duke of Sussex will be honoured at Thursday’s ceremony for his military experience and work on the Invictus Games.
The announcement caused much surprise, including that of the late heroine’s mother, Mary Tillman, who criticized ESPN, claiming she was never consulted about the decision.
The father-of-two quickly found himself in the spotlight and former royal butler Grant Harrold believes he is now considering his options.
“It’s interesting that Harry’s nod has ruffled feathers,” Harrold told The Post exclusively. “From my perspective, it’s a little confusing.”
Harrold said Harry is undoubtedly “very sad about it”, adding that the Duke – who retired from royal life in 2020 – is “one of the most caring, kindest, gentlest people you could ever meet.”
So much so, that it is possible he will turn down the prestigious award.
“He would never want to cause a stir,” Harrold said. “If he thinks it’s going to cause a stir, then it’s very likely he could refuse the prize … because he would never want to cause a stir and it would affect him if he heard about the backlash.”
“Only time will tell how he reacts, but I’m sure he will discuss this with his team and wife Meghan. [Markle] “About,” he added on behalf of FruitySlots.
ESPN has since defended its decision to honor Harry, saying his work on the Invictus Games “is a cause worth celebrating.”
The award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the world, following the example of the former NFL player and US Army Ranger, who signed up after the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Tillman, a former safety for the Arizona Cardinals, served in Iraq and then Afghanistan before being killed by friendly fire in 2004. The soldier was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his service.
Harry served in the British Armed Forces for ten years, including two tours in Afghanistan as an Apache helicopter pilot and forward air controller.
“Harry is someone who has been seen in service,” Harrold said. “He is someone who has served his country, he is clearly a senior member of the Royal Family, although not a working member.”
“Without forgetting all the work he has done as part of the Invictus Games, it was clear that people felt he deserved the nomination.”
“I can understand why Harry is confused about the reactions to his application for the prize – this has to do with his military background,” he said, adding that there have “never been any issues or questions about it”.
Earlier this week it was reported that Harry was “stunned” by the negative reactions to his tribute.
The Duke, in turn, was asked to do the ‘honourable’ thing and decline the prize.