Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who is currently on top after winning the gold medal in the women’s 66kg final at the Paris Olympics, achieved a dominant victory by defeating China’s Yang Liu with a score of 5:0. However, this gold medal did not come easily for the 24-year-old. The scrutiny she faced from various opponents at the Olympics was enough to make anyone emotionally break down.
Her participation in the Olympics was under scrutiny due to her disqualification from the 2023 World Championships for failing to meet gender eligibility criteria. At that time, the International Boxing Association (IBA) conducted tests but did not specify the reasons for the disqualification, only stating ‘medical reasons’ as the explanation.
Who is Imane Khelif?
Born in Tiaret, Algeria, Imane Khelif is also a UNICEF ambassador. She grew up in a rural village in the province and has been open about her journey into the sport. She financed her boxing sessions by selling scrap metal for recycling, as her father did not approve of her boxing career. Khelif came into the limelight at the age of 19 when she finished 17th at the 2018 World Championships. However, her breakthrough came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she reached the quarterfinals but unfortunately lost to Ireland’s Kellie Harrington.
Imane Khelif Olympics Controversy
As mentioned, her journey at the Paris Olympics was not easy. In the Round of 16, when she was fighting against Italian Angela Carini, Khelif’s one punch was enough to secure her victory. However, the match became controversial. Carini broke down after receiving a punch from Khelif that dislodged her chinstrap and a second punch nearly knocked her unconscious.
After taking multiple punches, Carini returned to her corner, raised her hand, and requested that the match be abandoned. She also refused to shake Khelif’s hand after the Algerian was declared the winner, which became a focal point of discussion. It is noteworthy that Khelif is one of only two boxers permitted to compete at the Olympics despite being disqualified from the Women’s World Championships last year due to failing gender eligibility tests.
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