Fresh from Asiad conquest, Hidilyn Diaz tempers 2020 Olympiad expectations

MANILA, Philippines – Upon her arrival from Jakarta Tuesday night, the Asian Games gold medalist in weightlifting looked forward to the next big event – the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

But the pride of Zamboanga, silver medalist in the 2016 Rio Olympics, said she’s not promising anything if and when she competes in Tokyo.

“I don't want to promise anything,” said the 27-year-old.

Diaz arrived with a big group of athletes who vied in the ongoing Asian Games in Jakarta. She was welcomed at the airport by her parents, Eduardo and Emelita.

“Mahirap mag-promise,” added Diaz following a press conference.

Arriving from Jakarta ahead of Diaz were members of the Philippine women’s golf team, who won two gold medals in the team and individual events.

Yuka Saso, the gold medalist in the individual event, was joined by her teammates Bianca Pagdanganan and Lois Kaye Go in the flight.

Saso, who’s only 17, said she’s looking forward to the Youth Olympics, which is scheduled in October in Buenos Aires.

The golfers were welcomed by their proud parents as well.

Later on, the four female gold medalists faced the cameras, flashing their golds.

Welcoming the gold medalists were Special Assistant to the President Bong Go, Philippine Sports Commission chairman Butch Ramirez and Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella.

Diaz had been to three Olympics, from Beijing in 2008, London in 2012 and Rio in 2016. The doors are wide open for a fourth Olympics.

Just to think of a fourth stint in the Olympics is already tough enough for Diaz.

“There are a lot of sacrifices. I know because I’ve won the silver in the Olympics,” said Diaz.

“It’s really difficult with all the preparation. To me, this Asian Games is like the Olympics,” she said.

“There are two more years before the Tokyo Olympics,” she added.

The member of the Philippine Air Force said she has her own plans, her own dreams outside of being a weightlifter, and that includes putting up her own business.

“I’m thinking of a coffee shop or a gym. But right now I can’t even do it because of the coming Olympics,” she said.

Diaz was asked about her love life, and she replied by saying that yes, she is engaged.

“I have a boyfriend. He’s waiting outside,” she added.