Hidilyn Diaz did not just make history but caused Filipinos to party around the globe. The Queen of Filipino weightlifting gave the Philippines its first Olympic Gold Medal. Diaz also joins Teofilo Yldefonso as the only Filipinos who own several Olympic medals.
Teofilo Yldefonso
Earning back-to-back bronzes in the 1928 and the 1932 Olympics held in Amsterdam and Los Angeles. Teofilo Yldefonso was the only Filipino who have won several medals. Unfortunately, he like many others was not successful in claiming the elusive Olympic gold medal for the country.
Diaz started strong and finished stronger
After clearing 94kg in her first snatch attempt, Diaz did not stop. She tied the previous World Record after lifting 97kg in her second attempt. Unfortunately, Diaz failed to record a lift after Muattar Nabieva of Uzbekistan lifted 98kg.
Diaz’s quest for gold was not that easy as she faced world record holder Liao Quiyun of China. Liao Quiyun did not leave without a fight who took the lead as she lifted 126kg in her third attempt. Unfortunately for Quiyun, Diaz would have the better end in their match-up, securing the gold for the Philippines after a successful 127kg attempt to close out the event.
Diaz added up to her reputation as the first woman to win an Olympic medal back in 2016 but has now brought home the first Olympic gold for the country.
Salamat Hidilyn Diaz!
