I don't think anybody compared Jenner to a firefighter, who potentially risks his life every day, or a soldier. There's no comparison. This arbitrary award by ESPN was given to Michael Sam last year, so I mean you can see the politics behind the decision making.

controversial polarizing person = ratings and press coverage

and the rumor about the second place finisher...was...just a rumor

http://m.snopes.com/2015/06/02/caitlyn-jenner-arthur-ashe-espys/