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Tuesday, 23/9/2025 | 19:01 GMT+7

9 notable athletes turned politicians

From the soccer pitch to the boxing ring and the track, athletes like George Weah, Manny Pacquiao, Vitali Klitschko, and Sebastian Coe have found success in politics after retiring from professional sports.

George Weah, the only African player to win the Ballon d'Or (1995), shone on the soccer field for PSG, AC Milan, and Chelsea. After retiring, he entered Liberian politics, becoming a senator in 2014 and president in 2018. His term focused on infrastructure, education, and healthcare, despite economic and governance challenges. He lost his re-election bid in 2023.

Manny Pacquiao, the only boxer to hold world titles in eight weight classes, is considered one of the greatest of all time. His professional record boasts 62 wins (39 by knockout), 8 losses, and 2 draws. He entered Philippine politics in 2010 as a congressman for Sarangani province and became a senator in 2016. Though his presidential bid was unsuccessful, he remains influential in anti-corruption efforts and poverty reduction initiatives.

Vitali Klitschko and his brother Wladimir Klitschko held numerous heavyweight boxing championships, known for their power and endurance. After retiring in 2013, Vitali entered Ukrainian politics, becoming the mayor of Kyiv in 2014. Amidst conflict and instability, he has become a prominent political figure, leading the city and symbolizing national unity.

Imran Khan captained the Pakistani cricket team to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup, becoming a national sports icon. He founded the Tehreek-e-Insaf party in 1996 and, after several attempts, was elected Prime Minister of Pakistan in 2018. Khan pursued anti-corruption and administrative reform policies but faced governance difficulties and opposition pressure.

Romario, a key player in Brazil's 1994 World Cup win, scored over 700 goals in his career. He played for Barcelona from 1993 to 1995, winning La Liga and finishing as runner-up in the 1993-1994 Champions League. After retiring, he entered Brazilian politics, becoming a congressman in 2010 and a senator for Rio de Janeiro in 2014. He focuses on social policies, especially disability rights and community sports development.

Sebastian Coe is one of history's greatest middle-distance runners, with four Olympic medals, including consecutive golds in the 1500m at the 1980 and 1984 Olympics. He set 12 world records, including three in just 41 days in 1979. Along with Steve Ovett and Steve Cram, he spearheaded a golden age of British athletics in the 1980s. Post-retirement, he served as a Conservative Member of Parliament and held various sports-related political roles. He chaired the London 2012 Olympic Organizing Committee and later became president of World Athletics, shaping global sports policy.

Bill Bradley, a New York Knicks basketball star, won two NBA championships in the 1970s. After retiring, he pursued a political career, serving as a U.S. Senator for New Jersey from 1979 to 1997. He was known for his progressive policies on taxes, healthcare, and education and was considered a potential presidential candidate.

Jesse "The Body" Ventura, a professional wrestler in the 1980s and an action movie actor, won the Minnesota gubernatorial election in 1998, serving until 2003. His independent political style, distinct from the two major parties, resonated with voters seeking change.

Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore won a silver medal in the Double Trap shooting event at the 2004 Olympics, a significant achievement for India. He later entered politics, becoming a Member of Parliament and serving as Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports. He is a prominent figure, using his athletic experience to shape national sports and physical education policy.

Hong Duy

By VnExpress: https://vnexpress.net/9-ngoi-sao-the-thao-thanh-chinh-tri-gia-noi-bat-4942445.html
Tags: Sebastian Vitali Klitschko George Weah Manny Pacquiao

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