CHONBURI, Thailand — Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz placed fourth in the women’s 58kg division at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games weightlifting competitions on Sunday at the Chonburi Sports School.

Diaz totaled 200 kilograms, lifting 90kg in the snatch and 110kg in the clean and jerk, narrowly missing the podium in her SEA Games return after winning gold in the 55kg class at the 2022 Hanoi edition.

Thailand’s Yodsarn claims gold

Yodsarn Suratwadee of Thailand captured the gold with a 224kg total, including a 96kg snatch and 128kg clean and jerk. Indonesia’s Natasya Beteyob earned silver with 218kg after lifting 98kg in the snatch and 120kg in the clean and jerk.

Diaz admitted that her preparation was affected by physical and mental challenges, including a lingering right knee injury and nearly two years without competition.

“First, I want to say sorry but I did my best. And this is my best for now kasi may injury ako at nahihirapan ako mag-drop weight kasi lumaki ako. Pero it’s not an excuse. At the end of the day, hindi ako sumuko. Nag-prepare ako and I’m happy to represent our country,” Diaz said.

Looking ahead

Diaz struggled with her final attempts, failing at 92kg in the snatch and at 115kg and 116kg in the clean and jerk that could have placed her in medal contention. Despite the disappointment, she remains focused on future competitions, including Olympic qualifiers for Los Angeles 2028.

“After not qualifying in Paris, medyo nawalan ako ng motivation and this is my first international competition after 2024. I’m happy to be back again,” she added.

The SEA Games weightlifting action continues on Monday with 2025 World Championship bronze medalist Elreen Ando competing in the women’s 63kg category.