At A Glance
- Eight-division Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao earned another recognition after receiving the Global Outstanding Sporting Career Award at the inaugural World Sports Summit in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates recently.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, and President of the Gulf Youth Games and Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation awards Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao.
Eight-division Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao earned another recognition after receiving the Global Outstanding Sporting Career Award at the inaugural World Sports Summit in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates recently.
The 47-year-old Pacquiao was feted alongside fellow sports greats in Serbian Novak Djokovic (tennis), Russian Khabib Nurmagomedov (MMA), Brazilian Ronaldo Nazário (football), and Frenchman Tony Parker (basketball) before distinguished attendees during the event.
The country’s boxing pride accepted the trophy with presenter Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the second deputy ruler of Dubai as well as president of UAE Olympic Committee and Gulf Youth Games.
The former senator was recognized not only for his brilliance during a decades-long boxing career but also for his humanitarian efforts both locally and internationally.
"Dubai believes in the positive role of sport in shaping a better future for societies," said Hamdan bin Mohammed. "Honoring stars like Manny Pacquiao is a testament to how one individual's discipline and heart can inspire an entire generation across borders."
Pacquiao dedicated the distinction to every hopeful who was longing for a better future.
"This award is not just for me; it is for every dreamer who was told their goals were too big. In boxing, we fight with our fists, but in life, we must fight with our hearts to unite people,” said Pacquiao. “I am honored to stand here in Dubai, a city that proves that with vision, anything is possible.”
Also in attendance was Dubai’s crown prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the first deputy ruler of Dubai.
In its maiden edition, themed “Uniting the World Through Sport,” the event aimed to gather top athletes and industry leaders to inspire the aspirants, especially the youth.