Boxer with gender test controversy claims victory in first Olympic bout in Paris as opponent quits after just 46 seconds.

Alngela Carincti Paris Olympics 2024. AP Photo.                                              Images download

 

A boxer involved in a gender test controversy secured a win in her first Olympic bout in Paris when her opponent, Carini, quit after just 46 seconds. Following the announcement of the decision, Carini declined to shake Khelif's hand and was visibly upset in the ring before leaving.

Carini, who had a small amount of blood on her trunks, explained that she withdrew due to intense pain in her nose from the initial punches. She emphasized that her decision was not a political statement and was not meant to express any opposition to Khelif.

"I experienced severe pain in my nose, and with the maturity of a boxer, I decided to stop because I couldn't continue," Carini said.

Khelif, a seasoned amateur who won a silver medal at the International Boxing Association's 2022 world championships, had previously been disqualified from last year’s championships due to elevated testosterone levels. She entered the ring at the North Paris Arena to enthusiastic cheers, but the crowd was puzzled by the abrupt end of the match.

Carini expressed her heartbreak over not being able to finish the fight, stating, "I am heartbroken because I am a fighter. My father taught me to be a warrior. I always step into the ring with honor and loyalty to my country, and it pains me that I couldn't complete the match."

Khelif and Lin Yu-ting from Taiwan have faced significant scrutiny in Paris after years of successful amateur careers. Lin, a two-time IBA world champion, had a bronze medal stripped last year due to unspecified eligibility issues. Lin is set to compete against Uzbekistan's Sitora Turdibekova on Friday after a first-round bye.

The Algerian Olympic Committee condemned what it called "lies" and "unethical targeting" of Khelif by some foreign media. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni criticized the decision to allow Khelif to compete, arguing that it could undermine women's rights in sports. She emphasized the need for fair competition and parity.

Khelif and Lin, who both competed in Tokyo without controversy, were permitted to compete in Paris by the IOC task force. The IOC defended their eligibility, stating that all competitors in the women's category meet the competition rules.

The IOC has overseen boxing in Paris due to the IBA's suspension over governance and corruption issues. The IBA has since faced criticism and legal challenges regarding its handling of the sport.