In a recent development that has caught the attention of the sports world, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has made it clear that the age limit for boxers will remain unchanged, effectively ending Manny Pacquiao’s aspirations to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite his legendary status and a career that has inspired millions, Pacquiao, at 45, will not be granted an exception to the rule that caps boxers’ age at 40. This decision underscores the IOC’s commitment to its regulations, even when faced with a figure as influential as the Filipino boxing icon.
The IOC’s stance was communicated in a letter to the Olympic officials in the Philippines, reiterating that the age limit, which was raised from 34 to 40 in 2013, will be strictly enforced. The governing body now oversees Olympic boxing after de-recognizing the International Boxing Association. The Philippines Olympic Committee had hoped to secure a ‘universality’ entry for Pacquiao, a provision typically reserved for nations with fewer athletes at the Games. However, the success of the Philippines in recent Olympics, with an average of more than eight athletes in individual sports, disqualified them from this exception.
Pacquiao’s storied career came to a close in September 2021, at the age of 42, after a remarkable 72 fights, during which he secured 12 world titles across an unprecedented eight different weight divisions. His journey from a desperate family background to the pinnacle of boxing has been nothing short of cinematic. The ‘Pac-Man’ has been a source of inspiration, showing that with hope and hard work, one can fight their way out of poverty and into the annals of sports history.
Despite his retirement, Pacquiao’s ambition to compete in the Olympics remained strong. The Paris Games, set to be held in the iconic Roland Garros tennis complex, would have been the perfect stage for his Olympic debut. It’s worth noting that the opportunity to compete at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics was available to him after the age limit was increased, but Pacquiao chose to serve his country as a senator instead.
The question of whether Pacquiao would have attempted to qualify through the upcoming tournaments in Italy and Thailand remains unanswered. What is certain, however, is the finality of the IOC’s decision. This marks the end of what could have been a fairy-tale chapter in Pacquiao’s boxing career, leaving fans to wonder what might have been had the ‘Pac-Man’ graced the Olympic rings with his presence.
As the boxing community comes to terms with this news, the legacy of Manny Pacquiao remains untarnished. His achievements within the ring and his service outside of it continue to resonate with people around the globe. While the Paris Olympics will go on without him, the story of Manny Pacquiao will forever be etched in the hearts of sports enthusiasts as a tale of triumph, determination, and the indomitable human spirit.
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