Boxer Imane Khelif, Who Failed Gender Eligibility Test, Sparks Controversy With 46-Second Win Over Angela Carini At Paris Olympics

An Olympic boxing match ended in controversy Thursday when Algerian boxer Imane Khelif defeated Italy’s Angela Carini in just 46 seconds, reigniting debate over gender eligibility in sports.

The fight ended quickly after Carini received two powerful punches from Khelif, prompting the Italian to remove her headgear and declare the fight “unjust.” Carini, visibly distraught, refused to shake hands with her opponent and left the ring in tears.

The match has drawn criticism from many, including former British Prime Minister Liz Truss and author J.K. Rowling, who questioned the fairness of the bout on social media. Rowling has become an outspoken voice against trans athletes competing in women’s sports.

Critics argue that Khelif, who was previously disqualified from the 2023 world championships due to elevated testosterone levels, should not have been allowed to compete in the women’s category.

Carini, speaking after the match, expressed surprise at the intensity of the blows she received. “I’ve never taken a punch like that,” she said. “It’s impossible to continue.” The Italian boxer emphasized that she entered the ring intending to fight but felt compelled to stop due to the pain.

Despite the controversy, Carini refrained from directly criticizing her opponent’s eligibility, stating, “I’m not in the position of saying this is right or wrong. I did my job as a boxer, entering the ring and fighting.”

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is now facing pressure to review its policies on gender eligibility in boxing and other sports. The incident has reignited discussions about fairness and safety in women’s sports, with some calling for stricter regulations.

Khelif, for her part, celebrated the victory and expressed hope for continued success in the tournament. The Algerian Boxing Federation praised her performance on social media, describing the win as “effortless.”

The controversy extends beyond the ring, touching on broader debates about gender identity in sports. While some argue for more inclusive policies, others emphasize the need to protect women’s sports and ensure fair competition.