Algerian boxer Imane Khelif sparked significant controversy at the Paris 2024 Olympics after winning her bout in just 46 seconds. This victory has intensified the debate over gender eligibility in sports. The fight saw Khelif defeat Italian opponent Angela Carini, who was left visibly distressed and injured. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy has criticized the result, claiming the competition was unfair.
Khelif, who had previously failed a gender eligibility test, delivered two powerful punches that left Carini with a bleeding nose, unable to continue. Carini, deeply upset, collapsed and sobbed in front of reporters, expressing her pain and regret. “I felt intense pain and my nose began to bleed from the first hit,” Carini said, explaining her decision to stop the match.
Despite the controversy, Khelif advanced to the quarter-finals of the women’s 66kg category. Last year, both Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting were disqualified from the world championships due to elevated testosterone levels but were later deemed eligible for the women’s competition in Paris.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had disqualified Khelif from the world championships due to elevated testosterone levels, which did not meet the eligibility criteria. However, both Khelif and Lin were allowed to compete in Paris. The IOC’s decision has been criticized by various figures, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. She expressed her disagreement with the IOC’s stance, arguing that athletes with male genetic characteristics should not compete in women’s events.
Khelif, who previously placed fifth in Tokyo, was met with cheers from Algerian fans at the North Paris Arena. The controversy has overshadowed the day’s events, with Meloni’s comments adding fuel to the debate.
Earlier in the day, Algeria’s Olympic Committee condemned what they termed “malicious and unethical attacks” against Khelif, accusing foreign media of spreading lies about the athlete. The committee defended Khelif, asserting that all competitors are complying with eligibility rules as stated in their official documents.
Australian boxer Caitlin Parker, competing in the 75kg weight class, also voiced her concerns about the controversy. She stated that allowing athletes with male genetic characteristics in women’s combat sports is potentially dangerous.
The debate over gender eligibility continues to be a hot topic at the Paris Games, reflecting ongoing discussions about fairness and inclusivity in sports.
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Source: ChannelsTv
