Algerian boxer Imane Khelif found herself embroiled in controversy after her opponent, Angela Carini of Italy, walked away from their fight at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Despite being born female and identifying as a woman, Khelif’s participation has sparked significant debate.
Now, her father has broken his silence.
On August 1, Khelif’s boxing match against Carini came to an abrupt end when the Italian boxer exited the ring prematurely, citing “severe pain” in her nose as the reason for her withdrawal.
This unexpected turn of events meant that Khelif was declared the automatic winner, as previously reported. However, her previous disqualification from the 2023 world championships due to elevated testosterone levels has led some to argue that she should not compete against other women.
In defense of his 25-year-old daughter, Amar Khelif spoke to Reuters, expressing pride and admiration for her achievements. “Having such a daughter is an honor because she is a champion. She honored me, and I encourage her. I hope she will get the medal in Paris,” he said. “Imane is a little girl that has loved sport since she was 6 years old.”
To address doubts about her gender, Amar Khelif presented what Reuters described as an “official-looking document.” He stated, “This is our family official document, May 2, 1999, Imane Khelif, female. It is written here; you can read it. This document doesn’t lie.”
The controversy prompted Carini to publicly apologize to Khelif on August 2, speaking to the Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, as reported by CNN. “I’m sorry for my opponent. If the IOC said she can fight, I respect that decision,” Carini said. “It wasn’t something I intended to do. Actually, I want to apologize to her and everyone else. I was angry because my Olympics had gone up in smoke.”
Khelif herself addressed the situation, urging the public to stop bullying athletes. Speaking to SNTV, she said: “It can destroy people, it can kill people’s thoughts, spirit, and mind. It can divide people. And because of that, I ask them to refrain from bullying.”
Despite the controversy, Khelif’s story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by athletes who compete under scrutiny and public debate. Her father’s support and her own call for kindness underscore the importance of respect and understanding in sports.
As the debate continues, Khelif remains focused on her goal, hoping to achieve success in the Olympics and bring pride to her family and country. The journey has not been easy, but with her father’s encouragement and her own resilience, she aims to rise above the challenges and continue her path as a champion.