Philippine athletes achieve remarkable success in 2024 sports events

In 2024, several underdog athletes from the Philippines achieved remarkable success in sports. Boxer Aira Villegas, previously ranked 20th, won a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics after defeating top competitors, marking her rise from obscurity to prominence. Filipino billiards players also excelled, with Carlo Biado winning the WPA World Ten-ball Championship and Rubilen Amit claiming her third world title. The inaugural Reyes Cup showcased local talent, with Biado and Johann Chua leading Team Asia to victory against Europe. Basketball player Kai Sotto improved his performance in the Japan B. League, averaging 13.8 points and 10.4 rebounds. In the Paralympics, swimmer Angel Otom and javelin thrower Cendy Asusano emerged as new stars, achieving personal bests despite not winning medals.