Why could cimon not become an Athenian citizen?

Cimon, an influential Athenian leader and general, could not become an Athenian citizen because his mother was a foreigner, which disqualified him under the citizenship laws of Athens at the time. Athenian citizenship was restricted to those with both Athenian parents, and this lineage requirement meant that despite his prominence and contributions to Athens, he lacked the necessary status for citizenship. Additionally, his ties to the aristocratic class and his political affiliations may have further complicated his standing in the citizenry.