Prince Harry left 'stunned' by fury over award as tens of thousands call for U-turn

Tillman gave up a lucrative career in the NFL to enlist as an Army Ranger in 2002.

The US war hero served in Iraq and then Afghanistan, where he was killed by friendly fire in 2004.

However, there has been a furious reaction to the Duke of Sussex's nomination for the award including public criticism from Tillman's mother.

A source told The Telegraph: "Harry’s legacy on Invictus, the things he has achieved, that’s his real passion.

"This is the space in which he truly feels at home, it is something he deeply cares about. The reaction certainly took the shine off the award."

A petition demanding ESPN rethink their decision, claiming the Duke of Sussex had been "involved in controversies that call into question his suitability to receive an honour of this magnitude" has now reached 68,000 signatures.

The petition says "awarding this honour to someone who does not reflect the award’s intent diminishes its value and disrespects Tillman’s memory."

Jake Wood, a former Pat Tillman Award recipient defended the decision to select Prince Harry for the award, saying: "He’s a royal prince, there are 100 different things he could have done with his life after his service in the British Armed Forces but he’s chosen to dedicate a big portion of his post-military life to helping veterans."

One television consultant, who works for Disney and ESPN, said the backlash to the award will draw in bigger ratings for the ceremony.

They said: "Prince Harry getting this award has drawn insane eyeballs to this show.

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"The fact that so many people are talking about Harry and this honour will delight those at the top. They will stand firm on him getting it and also behind closed doors be excited that such a decision has prompted such interest in this night.

"Like it or loathe it, Harry draws interest and potentially bigger ratings – so they will keep him there."

Last week, ESPN released a statement highlighting the Duke of Sussex's achievements with the Invictus Games following the backlash.

The organisation said: "ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honouring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, specifically for the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world.

"While we understand not everyone will agree with all honorees selected for any award, The Invictus Games Foundation does incredible work and ESPN believes this is a cause worth celebrating."