BANGKOK, Thailand – Philippine weightlifting icon Hidilyn Diaz has firmly shut down retirement talks following a rare medal-less outing at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, declaring she’s “definitely not retiring yet” and setting her sights on a potential fifth Olympic appearance at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The 34-year-old Tokyo 2020 gold medalist finished fourth in the women’s 55kg category on December 15, 2025, at Nimibutr Stadium—a surprising result for the four-time SEA Games champion—but used the moment to reaffirm her passion and long-term ambitions.
Diaz, who has dominated the regional stage since 2015 with consecutive golds, lifted a total of 195kg (87kg snatch + 108kg clean and jerk), falling short of the podium as Thailand’s home favorite claimed gold. “This SEA Games was tough, but it’s fuel for me,” Diaz said post-competition, her voice steady despite the disappointment. “I’m not done. God willing, I’ll prepare for the next Olympics—LA 2028.” The statement thrilled fans, signaling the five-time Olympian’s intent to extend a career that includes silver (Rio 2016) and gold (Tokyo 2020).
A Realistic Reset: Balancing Motherhood and Medal Hunts
Diaz’s 2025 campaign was her first major competition since giving birth to daughter Isabella in 2023, a factor she openly acknowledged in training adjustments. “Motherhood changed everything—priorities, recovery, focus—but it also gave me new strength,” she reflected. Coach Julius Naranjo praised her resilience: “Hidilyn’s fourth place here is still world-class; she’s competing against younger lifters with full cycles. This motivates her for bigger stages.”
The SEA Games result—Diaz’s first without a medal since 2013—comes amid a transitional phase, with qualification for Paris 2024 already missed. Yet, at 34, she’s far from fading: Her lifts remain competitive globally, and the extended Olympic cycle to 2028 offers time to rebuild peak form.
Legacy and Motivation: From SEA Queen to Olympic Pioneer
Diaz’s journey—from Zamboanga’s humble beginnings to becoming the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist—has inspired generations. This “medal-less” chapter adds depth: “Wins aren’t everything; showing up, fighting, and inspiring the next Hidilyn—that’s my goal now.” She dedicated her effort to young athletes and mothers in sport: “If I can do it as a mom, anyone can chase dreams.”
As the SEA Games wrap, Diaz’s vow resonates: Not an end, but an encore. With Paris 2028 on the horizon, the queen of Philippine weightlifting isn’t bowing out—she’s reloading.
Competition Results (Women’s 55kg):
| Rank | Athlete | Country | Total Lift | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | (Thai lifter) | Thailand | TBD | Home gold |
| … | … | … | … | … |
| 4 | Hidilyn Diaz | Philippines | 195kg | Snatch 87kg, C&J 108kg |