hergie baycadan paris olympics 2024 boxing

Philippines’ Hergie Bacyadan takes a swing at China’s Li Qian in their women’s 75 kg preliminary boxing match at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos)

 

MANILA, Philippines—Hergie Bacyadan’s tough exit in the Paris Olympics 2024 has the Filipino boxer mulling her next career move.

Bacyadan said turning professional is among her options.

“I’m planning to turn pro but we’ll see. I’m also looking at situations that favor me. Whatever chance is given to me, wherever I’ll be comfortable and happy, I’ll be there,” said Bacyadan in Filipino at Newport World Resorts during Team Philippines’ homecoming.

“Whatever chance is given to me, I’ll take it. I’ll be there.”

Bacyadan was dealt with a tough situation in her first go-around in the Olympics.

In her first match, she was immediately given the gargantuan task of fending off the bemedaled Chinese boxer Li Qian.

Bacyadan succumbed to the more experienced Li via unanimous decision.

Bacyadan, however, isn’t closing the door on competing in the Summer Games if given a chance.

Although it would be hard, Bacyadan bared that Paris gave her the needed experience should she decide to try and qualify for Los Angeles in 2028.

“Why not? I told my coaches and officials that if they still have trust in me, why not [try again for LA]?”

“It’s hard to say things right away. I’m turning 30 this November but I got experience. Heading to the Olympic is hard as is, playing again is another conversation.”