The phrase represents a hypothetical scenario where Melbourne, Australia, chooses not to host or participate in an Olympic or Commonwealth Games event, despite potentially having secured the rights or being considered a viable host city. Such a decision would involve forgoing the perceived benefits associated with hosting major sporting events.
Factors contributing to this decision could encompass escalating costs, concerns over long-term infrastructure burdens, potential social disruptions, or a shift in strategic priorities by the city and its governing bodies. Historically, cities have withdrawn bids or relinquished hosting duties due to financial constraints, public opposition, or political instability, demonstrating the complexities involved in staging large-scale international sporting competitions.
