IN A setback for Filipino Olympic champion weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, she was compelled to withdraw from the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Grand Prix II in Doha, Qatar, following a noteworthy 100-kilogram lift in the snatch of the women’s 59 kg category.

The unexpected exit occurred after Diaz was unable to proceed to the clean and jerk, with the IWF speculating on a potential injury in a report on its official website.

Citing a precautionary measure due to a minor injury concern, the IWF mentioned in a report on Friday, “It was precautionary after a minor injury worry, and she expects to be moving up the rankings again at the next opportunity.”

Elreen Ando, another Filipino Olympian, also fell short of securing a medal in the same event. The 59 kg category holds particular significance for Diaz as it marks her new weight class for the upcoming Paris Olympics in the following year.

In this event, China’s Luo Shifang asserted dominance in the 59 kg category by lifting a total of 247 kg, surpassing Asian Games champion Kim Il Gyong, who managed a lift of 243 kg.

Despite the setback, Diaz remains hopeful for future opportunities to climb the rankings and showcase her prowess on the weightlifting stage.