Imane Khelif’s dad defends her after controversial fight.
Imane Khelif’s father has come out swinging in defense of his daughter following a heated gender controversy.
Victory sparks uproar.
The uproar arose after Khelif’s stunning victory in the women’s 66kg category.
The drama unfolded during Khelif’s fight against Italy’s Angela Carini, who withdrew after just 46 seconds.
Carini cited severe pain in her nose as the reason for her abrupt exit, according to her coach.
Controversial history exposed.
This incident comes on the heels of Khelif’s disqualification from last year’s Women’s World Boxing Championships in New Delhi.
The reason? Not meeting the event’s gender eligibility criteria.
Olympic comeback detailed.
Fast forward to today, Khelif is gearing up for the Paris Olympics, a testament to her resilience and determination.
She’s one of only two athletes, alongside Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting, cleared to compete in women’s boxing.
Born and raised as a girl, Khelif faced Carini in the Olympics round of 16 bout on August 1.
After the brief fight, Carini initially refused to communicate with Khelif.
“I went to the ring to honor my father. I was told many times I was a warrior, but I stopped for my health.”
Carini added, “I have never felt a punch like this.”
Carini expresses regret.
Despite the dramatic exit, Carini later expressed a desire to apologize for her behavior.
“This whole controversy makes me sad,” she told the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I’m sorry for my opponent, too. If the IOC has cleared her to fight, I respect that decision.”
“It wasn’t something I intended to do. I want to apologize to her and everyone else.”
Support from Algerian Committee highlighted.
The Algerian Olympic Committee has stood by Khelif amidst the backlash.
“We strongly support our heroine and defend her rights as a fair and qualified competitor.”
Father’s fierce defense detailed.
Meanwhile, Imane’s father, Omar Khelif, has fiercely defended his daughter’s right to compete.
“My child is a girl. She was raised as a girl. She’s strong and hardworking,” he told Sky News.
“The Italian opponent was unable to defeat my daughter because my daughter was stronger.”
Omar’s defense is bolstered by a staunch belief in his daughter’s training and determination.
Her disqualification from the 2023 Women’s World Boxing Championships in New Delhi was a major setback.
But it didn’t stop her. She pushed forward, training harder than ever.
Her determination caught the attention of the IOC, who approved her for the Paris Olympics.
Imane Khelif proves her resilience.
Imane Khelif’s journey is a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of adversity.
From disqualification to Olympic contender, she embodies strength and perseverance.
Her father’s unwavering support highlights the importance of family in such a challenging career.
The controversy may have cast a shadow, but it hasn’t dimmed Khelif’s resolve.
With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, Khelif is more determined than ever to prove her worth.