‘This is my best for now,’ Hidilyn Diaz misses out on podium in return to SEA Games

Filipino Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz returned to Southeast Asian Games competition but finished fourth in the women’s 58-kilogram weightlifting event on Sunday, ending her bid for a podium finish at the 33rd SEA Games held at the Chonburi Sports School in Thailand.

Diaz, the Philippines’ first-ever Olympic gold medalist, lifted a total of 200 kgs, 90 kgs in the snatch and 110 kgs in the clean and jerk, but was unable to match the heavier totals needed to secure a medal.

The 34-year-old weightlifting star began strong in the snatch portion, completing lifts of 88 kgs and 90 kgs, but failed her final attempt at 92 kg after a no-lift call. 

She then managed 110 kg in the clean and jerk, but missed on her attempts at 115 kg and 116 kg, which left her just outside medal contention.

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YOU’RE STILL A CHAMPION IN OUR EYES, HIDILYN! 🏋🏻‍♀️

Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz concluded her campaign at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Chonburi, Thailand, with a fourth-place finish in the women’s 58-kilogram weightlifting event. (Facebook/POC)

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— The Philippine Star (@PhilippineStar) December 14, 2025

Thailand’s Suratwadee Yodsarn captured the gold with a 224-kg total, while Indonesia’s Natasya Beteyob took silver at 218 kgs. Vietnam’s Thi Tam Quang rounded out the podium in third with a 215 kg tally.

Diaz has had a distinguished SEA Games record, previously winning gold medals in 2019 and 2022 in the lighter 55-kg category, but this edition marked her first competition in the 58-kg class at a SEA Games level.

After the competition, Diaz expressed regret over missing a medal but said she gave her best performance under the circumstances. 

She acknowledged the challenges she faced, including managing weight and an ongoing injury that affected her preparation and execution.

Diaz also hinted that she may continue competing internationally as she eyes future goals, including a potential bid for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, possibly in a higher weight class.

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