Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, became involved in controversy after her opponent, Italian fighter Angela Carini, left their bout at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Khelif’s involvement has generated a lot of discussion even though she was born a woman and identifies as such.
Her father has finally spoken up.
The boxing battle between Khelif and Carini ended abruptly on August 1st when the Italian boxer left the ring early, claiming to have “severe pain” in her nose.
As previously stated, Khelif was named the automatic winner due to this unexpected turn of events. However, others have argued that she shouldn’t participate against other women because of her prior disqualification from the 2023 world championships due to excessive testosterone levels.
Speaking to Reuters, Amar Khelif defended his daughter, 25, saying he was proud of her accomplishments. It is a privilege to have a daughter who is a champion. I support her, and she honored me. He expressed his hope that she will get the honor in Paris. “Since she was six years old, Imane has had a deep love for sports.”
Amar Khelif produced what Reuters called a “official-looking document” to allay concerns about her gender. “This is our family’s official document, Imane Khelif, female, May 2, 1999,” he said. What’s written here is for you to read. This document is truthful.
According to CNN, Carini publicly apologized to Khelif on August 2 in an interview with the Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport as a result of the scandal. “I feel bad for my opponent. “I respect that decision if the IOC said she can fight,” Carini remarked. “I had no intention of doing it. In fact, I would like to apologize to her and all of you. The fact that my Olympics had been ruined infuriated me.
In her own words, Khelif called on the public to refrain from harassing athletes. “It can kill people’s thoughts, spirit, and mind,” she stated in an interview with SNTV. It has the power to split people. I therefore request that they abstain from bullying.
Notwithstanding the controversy, Khelif’s story sheds light on the continuous difficulties experienced by sportsmen who compete in front of the public. Her father’s encouragement and her personal appeal for compassion highlight how crucial understanding and respect are in athletics.
Khelif stays committed to her objective, which is to win an Olympic medal and make her family and nation proud, even as the discussion rages on. Although the path has not been straightforward, she hopes to overcome the obstacles and carry on as a champion with the support of her father and her own fortitude.
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