In a recent episode of his ESPN show, Pat McAfee took a strong stance against the ESPY Awards, particularly for their decision to nominate Prince Harry for the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service.
This nomination has sparked a wave of criticism, especially from McAfee, who expressed his discontent over the apparent sidelining of American candidates in favor of a British royal.
The Pat Tillman Award is designed to honor individuals who have made significant contributions both in sports and in service to others, reflecting the legacy of the late NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger.
While McAfee acknowledged the importance of this award, he quickly pivoted to address what he saw as a glaring misstep by the ESPY committee.
“Why Prince Harry?” he bluntly asked, emphasizing his disbelief at the nomination.
Joining him in this critique was co-host Boston Conner, who didn’t mince words either.
He described the nomination as “probably the most embarrassing thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life,” further amplifying the sentiment that many felt regarding the decision.
The duo’s frustration seemed to resonate with a broader audience, as they anticipated backlash from sports fans who value patriotism and common sense.
McAfee recognized Prince Harry’s contributions, such as founding the Invictus Games and his service in the British Army.
However, he questioned the appropriateness of nominating someone who is not an American, especially when there are countless deserving candidates from the U.S. military who embody the same selfless spirit that Pat Tillman represented.
Reflecting on his own experiences with the ESPY Awards, McAfee suggested that the decision-makers may not fully grasp the interests and values of the sports community.
His remarks hinted at a deeper concern that the awards might be straying from their original purpose, which is to celebrate athletic achievement and honorable service.
Ty Schmidt, another cast member, weighed in on the discussion, labeling the ESPY Awards as a gimmick.