MANILA, Philippines–The Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo is focused on growing the popularity of weightlifting in the country while also pursuing her Olympic dreams.
Despite her commitment to developing the sport, Diaz-Naranjo confirmed her plans to qualify for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, sharing her intentions during the Inquirer Read-Along event.
Diaz-Naranjo made history at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics when she won the gold medal in weightlifting, an achievement that was celebrated nationwide.
Her victory was a landmark moment for Philippine sports, and since then, she has used her platform to advocate for weightlifting and inspire young athletes.
Although she has expressed a desire to start a family, Diaz-Naranjo remains committed to her athletic career.
She acknowledges that family is a priority but continues to focus on her training and preparation for future competitions, including the 2028 Olympics.
Starting her Olympic journey at a young age, Diaz-Naranjo’s dedication has earned her recognition as one of the world’s top weightlifters.
Beyond her athletic success, she actively participates in initiatives that promote sports and fitness among the youth, encouraging the next generation to pursue their passions.
At the Inquirer Read-Along event, Diaz-Naranjo shared her personal experiences with children, urging them to embrace challenges and follow their dreams.
She hopes that her journey will inspire young Filipinos to become not only athletes but also leaders in their communities.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics, Diaz-Naranjo sees the opportunity as a chance to further elevate weightlifting in the Philippines.
She remains focused on her training, carefully balancing her personal goals with her professional ones.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Diaz-Naranjo is a strong advocate for gender equality in sports.
She works to increase opportunities for women in athletics and has become a role model for female athletes in the Philippines.
Though the path to the 2028 Olympics will be challenging, Diaz-Naranjo’s passion and determination continue to drive her forward.
Her ability to balance her personal and professional aspirations demonstrates the perseverance that defines great athletes.
