Amid controversy over her eligibility, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif let her performance speak for itself, winning her semifinal bout by unanimous decision and advancing to the gold medal match. Khelif, who faced scrutiny after her first-round victory, triumphed over Janjaem Suwannapheng of Thailand with skillful strikes and footwork. Khelif had been at the center of a controversy regarding her eligibility, which had elicited criticism on social media. The controversy began last year when the International Boxing Association (IBA) disqualified her for failing an unspecified test. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has since defended Khelif’s eligibility, stating that her previous disqualification by the IBA was “sudden and arbitrary.” Despite the criticism, Khelif remains focused, expressing pride and urging against athlete bullying. She has her heart set on a gold medal and her semifinal win guarantees she will at least get a silver medal.
SOURCE: NEW YORK TIMES
Algeria’s Imane Khelif Advances to Final at Paris Olympics
