Why Margielyn Didal became an instant celebrity in Brazil

Pinay street skateboarder Margielyn Didal may have failed to win an Olympic medal for the Philippines at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, but she won the hearts of many Brazilian fans.

So, why are people from Brazil suddenly enamored by the 22-year-old skateboarder from Cebu?

It's because of her admirable positive vibes and friendliness to Brazil's silver medalist Rayssa Leal.

Despite an awkward fall, Margielyn powered through and finished 7th in the women's street skateboarding Olympic event at the Ariake Skate Park held last Monday, July 26, all while also maintaining her infectious smile.

Margielyn was also seen giving a hug to her competitor from Brazil, Rayssa, which ultimately won the hearts of the latter's supporters.

This prompted them to flock to Margielyn's social media accounts and show the Filipina skateboarder some love.

Brazilian fans are showing love for Filipino skateboarder Margielyn Didal

Some Brazilian fans even said that Margielyn became a trending topic on Twitter Brazil on the day of the Olympics street skateboarding event, and even made it to the headline of one of their top news center.

Aside from being friendly to each other during the competition, Margielyn and Rayssa also did a cute and fun TikTok dance together, which already has 211,000 views.

A Brazilian fan shared it and even rallied for a pair mode in the next skateboarding event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Margielyn may have fell short in her bid for an Olympic medal for the Philippines, but she's proof that one can still make the most out every experience.

Fortunately, the Cebuana skateboarder is still young and can compete again in the next Olympic games in 2024.

This year, Margielyn may not be bringing home a medal, but she sure represented our country well by showing how persistent and resilient we are, how much of a good sport we are, and more importantly, how friendly and warm the Filipinos can be.

For more lifestyle content, head out to GMA's Lifestyle page.

Check out also the other inspiring Filipina achievers like Margielyn Didal in the gallery below.