Former NFL player and sports commentator Pat McAfee has strongly criticized the ESPYs for nominating Prince Harry for the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for service.
McAfee expressed his frustration over what he perceives as the exclusion of American candidates in the selection process for the award, which is designed to honor individuals with a strong sports connection who have served others, in tribute to the late NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman.
During a recent segment on his ESPN show, McAfee didn’t mince words when addressing the events committee responsible for the nominations.
He started by acknowledging Pat Tillman’s heroic legacy, emphasizing his selfless nature and the significance of having an award named after him in the sports world.
However, McAfee swiftly shifted his focus to the decision to nominate Prince Harry, questioning the rationale behind the choice, particularly given the Prince’s current status outside the royal family.
McAfee’s co-host, Boston Conner, echoed his sentiments, describing Prince Harry’s nomination as one of the most embarrassing moments he has ever witnessed.
McAfee raised doubts about the thoroughness of the ESPY awards committee, suggesting that they may not have conducted adequate research on the nominees.
He highlighted the selection process involving global online fan voting from candidates selected by the ESPY nominating committee.
Anticipating a backlash from sports fans and Americans alike, McAfee predicted the negative response to pairing an American figure with Prince Harry for the award.
He acknowledged Prince Harry’s accomplishments, such as founding the Invictus Games and his service in the British Army, but questioned whether he or his team were prepared for the criticism that would follow the nomination.
Reflecting on his own involvement with the ESPYs, McAfee shared insights from his past experiences, including hosting the opening monologue at the 2023 awards show.
He suggested that the decision-makers behind the event may not always prioritize the interests of sports fans, emphasizing the need to celebrate sports in a positive light rather than provoke controversy.
McAfee pointed out a pattern of contentious decisions made by the ESPYs over the years, hinting at a lack of cohesive leadership within the organization.
He expressed disappointment in what he perceives as one individual having too much influence over the entire process, questioning the integrity of the awards.
Another member of the show, Ty Schmidt, joined McAfee in criticizing the ESPYs, labeling the awards as mere gimmicks.
Schmidt argued that there were numerous deserving candidates from the U.S. military who could have been recognized instead of Prince Harry, suggesting that the selection process may have overlooked more fitting recipients for the award.
In response to the situation, McAfee humorously proposed the creation of a new award specifically tailored for royal family members like Prince Harry who distance themselves from their titles and have a passion for sports.
He and his co-hosts emphasized the presence of many deserving individuals, particularly from the U.S. military, who embody the selfless spirit epitomized by Pat Tillman, raising questions about the alignment of the ESPYs with their intended values of celebrating true sportsmanship and service.