Manny Pacquiao Embraces Pickleball: A New Chapter in Sports
Manny Pacquiao's Transition to Pickleball
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has recently showcased his newfound passion for pickleball by sharing a video of himself practicing on the court. He humorously noted that his extensive experience in boxing still influences his approach to this emerging sport. As reported by NotiFight, Pacquiao surprised fans with footage from a training session while actively promoting the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour (MPPT), a professional league he has recently established in the Philippines.
Although he has traded boxing gloves for a pickleball paddle, the eight-time world champion acknowledged that breaking old habits can be challenging. "My natural reflexes still dictate boxing combinations to me," Pacquiao quipped. He further explained that whenever he strikes the ball, his instincts kick in, leading him to execute familiar boxing moves. "At the moment of striking, my mind still orders me to execute a classic jab, jab, hook," he added.
Pacquiao's increasing enthusiasm for pickleball comes at a pivotal moment for the sport in the Philippines. He has recently endorsed the launch of the MPPT, which aims to create new opportunities for players nationwide. During the league's announcement, Pacquiao expressed his vision for the initiative, stating, "It's always been my mission to promote sports and provide our athletes with a platform to showcase their talents and bring pride to their cities and provinces." He acknowledged that while pickleball is relatively new in the Philippines, it is an exciting and easily accessible sport.
The MPPT has received sanctioning from the Games and Amusements Board and will feature eight regional franchises competing in men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles events. Pacquiao's involvement is anticipated to significantly enhance the visibility of pickleball in the Philippines, where the sport is rapidly gaining popularity. Now, as he picks up a paddle instead of gloves, one of boxing's greatest champions is embarking on a new sporting journey, although the fighter within him remains ever-present.