The International Olympic Committee, IOC has deemed boxing icon Manny Pacquiao too old for the 2024 Paris Games.
The Philipine Olympic Committee announced on Monday that the IOC rejected a special request for Pacquiao participate in the Games.
The 45-year-old, who hung up his gloves in 2021 before an unsuccessful presidential run, said he respected the decision of the IOC, which has an age limit of 40 for Olympic boxers.
The Philippines last year asked the IOC for a universality place for Pacquiao, who has never boxed in the Olympics.
Universality places are usually awarded to athletes from smaller countries who struggle to secure slots in the Olympics through normal qualification.
Philippine Olympic Committee president, Abraham Tolentino claimed the IOC decision would deprive the country of a sure podium or first ever gold in Olympic boxing.
Pacquiao said he will continue to support and cheer for Filipino athletes competing in the Olympics.
He also reminded his fans that despite his retirement, he intends to bring pride and honour to the Phillipines inside the boxing ring in the near future.