Photo credit: Manny Pacquiao

When it comes to defining the greatest Asian athlete of the 21st century, one name stands out among the rest: Manny Pacquiao. ESPN recently crowned Pacquiao as the greatest Asian athlete of this century, and honestly, it’s hard to argue with that choice.

So, why does Pacquiao top the list? For starters, his boxing career is nothing short of legendary. Since 2000, Pacquiao has boasted an impressive 35-6-2 pro record and made history by holding world titles in an unprecedented eight weight divisions. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about a career that has spanned over three decades, filled with triumphs and unforgettable moments.

Pacquiao’s accolades are numerous. He’s been named Fighter of the Year by Ring Magazine three times (2006, 2008, and 2009), and was honored as the BWAA's Fighter of the Decade for the 2000s. He even snagged the Best Fighter ESPY Award twice, in 2009 and 2011. His achievements in the ring are the stuff of legend, and his impact extends beyond boxing into politics and sports management.

But let’s not forget the other stars who made ESPN’s list. At number two is Yao Ming, whose influence on basketball and his role in bridging the gap between the NBA and China is monumental. Ichiro Suzuki follows at number three, known for his incredible baseball career and record-breaking hits. Son Heung-Min at number four brings attention to football, while Naomi Osaka rounds out the top five with her groundbreaking success in tennis.

Among the notable Filipino athletes included in the list are Hidilyn Diaz and June Mar Fajardo. Diaz made history as the Philippines' first Olympic gold medalist in weightlifting, and her win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics was a landmark moment for the country. Meanwhile, Fajardo, known as "The Kraken," has been a dominant force in Philippine basketball, with numerous PBA championships and MVP awards to his name.