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Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer at the center of a global gender controversy, guaranteed herself at least a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 with a decisive victory over Hungary's Anna Luca Hamori in the quarterfinals of the women's 66kg category. The emotional win, secured by unanimous decision, sent Khelif into tears.
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif secures Olympic medal amidst gender row
The boxer has faced intense scrutiny and online abuse due to misconceptions about her gender. Despite the challenges, she has remained steadfast and delivered a strong performance in the ring. The Algerian contingent in the crowd enthusiastically cheered her on, creating a supportive atmosphere.
Hamori Faces Backlash, Khelif Reaches Semifinals
Anna Luca Hamori, who had previously expressed concerns about facing Imane Khelif, was met with boos upon entering the arena. Despite the hostile atmosphere, Hamori displayed sportsmanship in defeat, congratulating Khelif on her victory.
Khelif will now face Thailand's Janjaem Suwannapheng in the semifinals on Tuesday, with a chance to compete for the gold medal.
Imane Khelif breaks down into tears after securing medal in Paris Olympics
"This is a matter of dignity and honour for every woman or female," the 25-year-old Khelif told BeIN Sports.
Imane Khelif continued her impressive Olympic campaign with a second consecutive dominant win in Paris. After a stunning 46-second knockout in her opening bout, she secured another victory, highlighting her dominance in the competition.
"The entire Arab people have known me for years. For years I have been boxing in international federation competitions, they (IBA) were unfair with me. But I have God," she added.
Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting is also in the spotlight as she aims to secure a bronze medal at the Olympics. She will face Bulgaria's Svetlana Staneva in the quarterfinals. Both Khelif and Lin have been at the center of a gender eligibility controversy. They were disqualified from the 2023 World Championships by the International Boxing Association (IBA) but were cleared to compete in Paris by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The controversy intensified when Khelif's opponent, Angela Carini, was forced to retire from their bout due to a severe nose injury sustained within the first minute of the match. The incident sparked widespread debate and scrutiny.
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The International Boxing Association (IBA) has clarified that Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting underwent a confidential gender test, distinct from a testosterone examination. The organization has faced criticism over the eligibility of the two boxers, who were disqualified from last year's World Championships.
The current Olympic boxing tournament is being managed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) due to concerns about the IBA's governance. The IOC has strongly defended Khelif and Lin, emphasising their female identity as indicated by their birth certificates and passports. Neither boxer has publicly identified as transgender.
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