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Algerian boxer Imane Khelifis on the brink of Olympic gold in the women's 66 kg welterweight division after a decisive victory against Thailand's Janjaem Suwannapheng. Khelif's unanimous 5-0 win at the Paris Games showcased her dominance and precision, leaving no doubt about her control over the bout.
Khelif's performance was a masterclass in boxing, dictating the pace from the first round to the last. Her superior technique and frequent, well-placed punches kept Suwannapheng on the defensive, though a knockout never seemed imminent. The crowd at Roland Garros, vibrant with Algerian flags and chants, clearly favored Khelif, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
However, Khelif's journey to the gold medal round hasn't been without controversy. Her eligibility has been a hot topic since Italian boxer Angela Carini forfeited their match after just 46 seconds, citing the unprecedented strength of Khelif's punches. This incident brought Khelif's gender into the spotlight, as she had failed a gender test istered by the International Boxing Association (IBA) in 2023, despite being listed as female on her port.
Controversy and courage: Khelif Faces gender test backlash
The circumstances surrounding Khelif's gender test have been murky. The IBA, criticized for its ties to Russia and its split from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has faced questions about the criteria and istration of these tests. The timing of Khelif's test, following her victory over a Russian opponent, has only fueled further speculation.
In a recent interview with SNTV, Khelif addressed the backlash in Arabic, but avoided confirming whether she had undergone any tests aside from doping screenings. She emphasized the damaging effects of bullying on athletes, urging the global community to uphold Olympic values and refrain from harassment. "It can destroy people, it can kill people's thoughts, spirit, and mind. It can divide people,"Khelif ionately stated.
The emotional rollercoaster continued for Khelif as she secured at least a bronze medal with her win over Hungary's Anna Luca Hamori. Overwhelmed with tears, Khelif affirmed her identity as female to the media. Since there are no third-place bouts in Olympic boxing, Khelif and Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting, another female boxer who failed the IBA's gender test, were guaranteed medals before the semifinals.
The stage is now set for Friday afternoon's final, where Khelif will fight for gold. Her journey, marked by both triumph and controversy, has captivated audiences worldwide, making her one of the most talked-about athletes at the Paris Games.