Dakar, Senegal, November 9, 2026: Two young gymnasts from the Philippines took a photo to remember for a lifetime at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
Hillarion Palles III and Tchelzy Mei Maayo had the opportunity to meet none other than Pau Gasol, basketball icon and Chair of the International Olympic Committee Athletes' Commission.
The five-time Olympian and NBA legend has been an IOC Member since 2021 and a member of the IOC Executive Board from this year.
“An inspiring moment for our young athletes to meet one of the greatest names in basketball and a champion of the Olympic Movement,” the Philippine Olympic Committee posted.
“A meeting to remember as Team Pilipinas continues to make its mark on the world stage!”