Algerian boxer Imane Khelif got caught up in controversy after her opponent, Angela Carini from Italy, suddenly walked away from their fight at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Even though Khelif was born female and identifies as a woman, her participation in the match stirred up a lot of debate.
Now, her father has finally spoken out.
On August 1, during Khelif’s boxing match with Carini, the fight unexpectedly ended when the Italian boxer left the ring early, saying she was experiencing “severe pain” in her nose.
After her opponent left the match, Imane Khelif was automatically declared the winner. But, some people think she shouldn’t compete against other women because she was disqualified from the 2023 world championships for having high testosterone levels.
Imane’s father, Amar Khelif, defended her, expressing pride in her achievements. He said, “Having such a daughter is an honor because she is a champion. She made me proud, and I encourage her. I hope she wins a medal in Paris.” He also mentioned that Imane has loved sports since she was 6 years old.
To clear up any doubts about her gender, Amar Khelif showed an official document that says, “Imane Khelif, female,” dated May 2, 1999. He insisted that this document is the truth.
The controversy led Angela Carini, the Italian boxer, to apologize to Khelif on August 2. She told an Italian news outlet that she was sorry for what happened and that she respects the decision allowing Khelif to fight. Carini explained that she didn’t mean for things to turn out this way and apologized to Khelif and everyone else.
Imane Khelif also spoke out, asking people to stop bullying athletes. She told SNTV, “Bullying can destroy people’s spirits and minds. It can divide people, and that’s why I’m asking everyone to stop doing it.”
Despite all the controversy, Khelif’s story shows the tough challenges athletes face when they’re under public scrutiny. Her father’s support and her own request for kindness remind us how important it is to show respect and understanding in sports.
As the debate goes on, Khelif is still focused on her goal of succeeding in the Olympics and making her family and country proud. The journey hasn’t been easy, but with her father’s encouragement and her own determination, she aims to overcome these challenges and continue on her path as a champion.
Years After I Graduated, My School Bullies Tried to Humiliate Me at Work, They Didnt Expect Instant Karma
What an incredibly satisfying moment! It’s a story of real triumph and growth—the kind of closure many people wish they could experience with their past. The contrast between the old high school torment and the present-day support of your “restaurant family” is such a testament to how far you’ve come and the respect you’ve earned. And the team rallying behind you? That’s the icing on the cake!
You handled Heather’s return with such class and poise. Standing up calmly, in the face of her arrogance, really shows the strength you’ve built over the years. And the way your team had your back speaks volumes about the environment you’ve created, one rooted in respect and kindness. You’ve clearly become the kind of leader who doesn’t just run a business but fosters a true community.
And that parting line, “Karma, served with a side of justice”—chef’s kiss! What a perfect blend of wit and confidence, proof that you’re far beyond the petty high school drama she’s still clinging to. This moment is more than a victory over an old bully; it’s an affirmation of everything you’ve achieved and the person you’ve become.
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