Imane Khelif’s entry into the 2024 Paris Olympics has ignited fresh controversy following a turbulent first fight. Khelif, an Algerian boxer who failed gender eligibility tests at the 2023 World Championships, faced Italian opponent Angela Carini in an opening round on Thursday.
The match ended abruptly when Carini was forced to withdraw 46 seconds into the fight after receiving two facial blows from Khelif.
Visibly distraught and in tears, Carini retreated to her corner after the quick stoppage. She declined a handshake from Khelif and pulled away from the referee as Khelif’s hand was raised in victory. Speaking to reporters through tears, Carini expressed her frustration and pain. “I’m used to suffering,” she said. “But after the first minute, I felt a strong pain in my nose. I didn’t give up easily, but the punch hurt too much.”
Carini’s coach, Emanuel Renzini, revealed that he had been concerned about the fight’s safety. “Many people in Italy warned her not to fight,” Renzini said. “They said it was dangerous because it’s a man.”
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has defended the inclusion of Khelif, 25, and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting in the Paris Olympics despite their disqualification from the world championships. The IOC stated that all athletes participating in the boxing tournament meet the eligibility and medical regulations. Khelif and Lin competed in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 but did not win medals.
“I’m here for the gold,” Khelif told BBC Sport. “I fight everybody.”
The IOC’s decision to allow Khelif and Lin into the Paris Games is linked to ongoing disputes over governance issues and funding concerns with the Russian-led International Boxing Association (IBA). The IOC has implemented specific regulations for boxing tournaments to ensure consistency and minimize disruptions to athletes’ preparation.
Khelif was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships due to elevated testosterone levels but has been cleared to compete in Paris. She will face Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori in the quarterfinals on Saturday. Hamori, who decisively won her opening fight, stated, “I don’t care about the press or social media. A victory over Khelif would be even more significant.”
The controversy has drawn international attention, including criticism from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Meloni regretted Carini’s withdrawal, emphasizing the importance of fair competition. “It’s crucial to compete on equal grounds, and I don’t think this was an even contest,” Meloni remarked.
