Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, embroiled in a heated gender controversy, advanced to the semifinals of the women’s 66kg category at the Paris Olympics, guaranteeing herself a medal. Her victory came after Italian boxer Angela Carini withdrew from their bout just 46 seconds in, citing concerns about Khelif’s gender. The North Paris Arena witnessed dramatic scenes as Algerian supporters vociferously cheered for Khelif. Hundreds of journalists crowded the mixed zone to get reactions from both boxers.
Khelif, in tears, declared to the official broadcaster, “I want to tell the entire world that I am a female, and I will remain a female. It’s a battle, it’s for my dignity.” The 25-year-old had been disqualified by the International Boxing Association (IBA) from the 2023 World Championships final due to alleged high levels of testosterone. However, the IBA later clarified that they did not test for testosterone, casting doubt on the biochemical assessment. Khelif is one of two boxers caught in the controversy, the other being Lin Yu-ting of Taiwan. She will face Janjaem Suwannapheng of Thailand in the semifinals on Tuesday.
Her opponent, Luca Anna Hamori of Hungary, was gracious in defeat. “This was a hard fight, but I think I could do everything I wanted before the fight. I’m so proud of myself and I’m so grateful to be here,” said Luca. “This was a very good competition for me. That was my childhood dream, so I’m so happy. I wish good luck to my opponents and the others in the finals.”
Hungary’s International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Balazs Furjes, visibly emotional after the bout, called for fair competition going forward. “We Hungarians, as proud and old members of the International Olympic family, are always, have always been, and will always be, in favour of fair competition. We can only believe that every match is decided on the play field and not elsewhere,” he stated. Furjes emphasized that forfeiting was never an option for Hamori, and she was determined to fight. “Therefore, it (forfeiting) was never an option for Luca. She always wanted to fight, and as a consequence of what I have said before, it was also clear from the very beginning that Luca will fight and give her best and that’s what you would have seen in the rings.”
Furjes highlighted the need for a thorough evaluation of the situation after the Games. “The Paris boxing competitions have their consequences, like every other competition. These consequences must be carefully evaluated after the Games and as loyal members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) we are 100 per cent convinced that the IOC will make the right decisions,” he concluded.
