MANILA: Hidilyn Diaz, the Philippines’ first and only Olympic gold medalist, affirmed her commitment to the sport of weightlifting despite failing to qualify for her fifth consecutive Olympic Games.
Despite facing disappointment in the IWF World Cup 59kg class competition in Thailand, Diaz remains determined to pursue her passion for weightlifting.
In a competition where only one athlete per country can qualify in each weight division, Diaz was narrowly edged out by her compatriot Elreen Ando, who secured a Paris weightlifting berth for the Philippines. Despite finishing 11th in the competition, Diaz expressed gratitude to her followers and supporters and emphasized her dedication to inspiring Filipino youth through sports.
While Diaz acknowledged the challenges she has encountered since transitioning to the heavier 59kg class, she remains resolute in her determination to continue her weightlifting journey. Although uncertain about her participation in the next Olympics, Diaz affirmed her commitment to training and serving athletes, revealing plans to establish her own sports academy.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino expressed regret over Diaz missing the opportunity to achieve five consecutive Olympic appearances, citing challenges such as competing outside her natural weight class and facing training disruptions due to injury.
Despite the setback, Diaz’s unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in the Philippines and beyond.
