IOC Denies Manny Pacquiao’s Bid for 2024 Paris Olympics Despite expressing his desire to complete his storied career with an Olympic appearance, legendary Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao will not be participating in the 2024 Paris Olympics after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially turned down his bid, citing age restrictions.
According to Rappler, the IOC conveyed to the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) that only boxers under the age of 40 are eligible to compete, confirming that Pacquiao, now 45, does not meet the criteria. POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed regret over Pacquiao’s disqualification due to his age, emphasizing the necessity for all athletes to undergo qualifiers for the Paris Olympics.
Pacquiao, who retired from professional boxing in 2021, had voiced his aspiration to participate in the Olympics, considering it the only achievement missing from his remarkable 26-year career. Reflecting on his earlier attempt to join the Philippine team, Pacquiao recalled being rejected for lacking proficiency. He expressed a deep-seated desire to clinch a gold medal at the Olympics.
Although Pacquiao’s Olympic dream remains unfulfilled, fans can still anticipate seeing him in action at the recently announced Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather rematch in Japan.
