(UPDATE) IN her first social media post after failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics, Hidilyn Diaz admitted that winning was not everything.

On Thursday, the country's first and only Olympic gold medalist congratulated all weightlifters who qualified for the 2024 Olympics, including those who will represent the Philippines.

"I realized what is forever: and it is not FAME, not money, not even winning or losing. but God, family, and real friends. These are my FOREVER. Thank you for your heartfelt messages of love and support," Diaz wrote.

"Winning is not everything; It is being on the platform and taking on the challenges that give inspiration to other athletes. Thank you to the athletes who messaged me and said that I inspired them. I served and will continue to serve my purpose in weightlifting, as I inspire many athletes to dream high, take the challenge, and work hard to achieve their dreams and never give up. Just LIFT! You can do it," she added.

Diaz also vowed to continue inspiring young Filipino athletes who dream of becoming an Olympic champ like her.

"The Olympics and weightlifting are not my everything. I sacrificed a lot of my time to train and sometimes I forget to enjoy the process because I am caught with the high expectations and high pressure of being an elite athlete," Diaz added.

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