Pacquiao 'saddened, disappointed' by IOC decision
2024-Feb-20 07:00
2024-Jul-14 15:47
PHOTO: Manny Pacquiao/Instagram
Pacman can't don the national colors in the 2024 Paris Olympics, following the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision.
Given his age, the IOC disqualified the 45-year-old Manny Pacquiao from competing in the quadrennial meet, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) informed the public on Sunday, February 18.
'Saddened and disappointed' by the news, Pacquiao in a statement told he still respects the IOC's decision.
"I respect the decision of the IOC regarding my request to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics," Pacquiao said.
"While I am very saddened and disappointed, I understand and accept the age limit rules," he added.
Only athletes aged 18-40 years old are allowed in the Olympics, as well as in the qualifying tournaments. In 2016, he was eligible to fight in the Rio de Janeiro taraflex but declined due to his duties and responsibilities as a senator at that time.
The Universality rule can't also secure him a spot, considering the Philippines managed to send more than eight athletes in the last two Olympic editions combined.
IOC Director for National Olympic Committee Relations James McLeod explained that the Universality berths are only for National Olympic Committees (NOCs) with eight or fewer athletes in the 2016 Rio Olympics and 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
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Despite this development, Pacquiao stated that his support remained for Filipino athletes seeing action in the Paris Games.
"I will continue to support and cheer for the Filipino athletes who will represent our country in the Olympics. Make us proud," Pacquiao stated.
The Philippines, as of writing, had four athletes who already qualified, led by pole vaulter EJ Obiena.
Joining Obiena were 19th Asian Games silver medalist Eumir Marcial and gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan.