Algerian boxer Imane Khelif wins medal amid gender controversy

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif secured a medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics after an emotional quarterfinal fight on Saturday.

Khelif defeated Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori 5:0 in the women’s 66-kilogram division, guaranteeing at least a bronze medal in her tumultuous second Olympic appearance.

Khelif faced significant scrutiny following claims by the International Boxing Association (IBA) that she failed an eligibility test last year due to elevated testosterone levels.

Despite this, she won her opening bout at the Paris Games on Thursday when Italy’s Angela Carini abandoned the fight after just 46 seconds. This unusual ending fueled debates over gender identity in sports.

Khelif’s second victory was a cathartic moment for the 25-year-old. Overcome with emotion, she waved to her fans, knelt, and then slammed her palm on the canvas before leaving the ring to hug her coaches.

“I am very proud to bring a medal for my country here in Paris. I worked very hard to be here. I thank everyone who supported me. This is a victory for all women,” Khelif said.

Despite protests from Hungary’s boxing association, Hamori fought valiantly, stating, “I’m so proud of myself… This was really a childhood dream.”

IOC President Thomas Bach defended Khelif, emphasizing that both Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting were born and raised as women. He criticized the IBA’s lack of transparency regarding their disqualifications.

Khelif dominated the fight with sharp jabs and combinations, ultimately winning unanimously. She will face Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng in the semifinals on Tuesday.

The Paris Olympics achieved gender parity, with equal numbers of male and female boxers, ensuring every semifinalist wins a medal. Khelif’s journey continues, as she hopes to claim a historic victory for Algeria.

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