Italian boxer Angela Carini broke down in tears after abandoning her bout against Algerian Imane Khelif just 46 seconds into their match, a decision that has sparked considerable controversy at the Paris Olympics.
Khelif, who was disqualified from the women’s world championships last year for failing gender eligibility tests, was allowed to compete at the Games. The fight, held at the North Paris Arena, saw Khelif’s first punch dislodge Carini’s chinstrap and a subsequent punch cause her nose to bleed. After taking several hard hits, Carini retreated to her corner, raised her hand, and then fell to her knees, sobbing. She chose not to shake Khelif’s hand and withdrew from the fight, citing severe pain and the possibility of a broken nose.
Carini, who described the punch as the hardest she had ever felt, said, “I went to the ring to honour my father. I am heartbroken because I am a warrior, but I had to stop for my health. The pain was too intense, and it was better to end the fight.” She emphasized that her decision was based on her physical well-being, not on Khelif’s presence.
The match drew criticism, with some arguing that athletes with male genetic characteristics should not compete in women’s events to ensure fair competition. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and UN Special Rapporteur Reem Alsalem both expressed concerns about the fairness and safety of the competition.
Khelif, unfazed by the controversy, remained focused on her goal, stating, “I am here for gold and will fight anybody.”
The International Olympic Committee has faced criticism for allowing Khelif and Lin Yu-ting of Chinese Taipei to compete in women’s categories, with Lin set to face Sitora Turdibekova from Uzbekistan in an upcoming bout.
