Algerian boxer Imane Khelif got caught up in controversy after her opponent, Angela Carini from Italy, suddenly walked away from their fight at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Even though Khelif was born female and identifies as a woman, her participation in the match stirred up a lot of debate.
Now, her father has finally spoken out.
On August 1, during Khelif’s boxing match with Carini, the fight unexpectedly ended when the Italian boxer left the ring early, saying she was experiencing “severe pain” in her nose.
After her opponent left the match, Imane Khelif was automatically declared the winner. But, some people think she shouldn’t compete against other women because she was disqualified from the 2023 world championships for having high testosterone levels.
Imane’s father, Amar Khelif, defended her, expressing pride in her achievements. He said, “Having such a daughter is an honor because she is a champion. She made me proud, and I encourage her. I hope she wins a medal in Paris.” He also mentioned that Imane has loved sports since she was 6 years old.
To clear up any doubts about her gender, Amar Khelif showed an official document that says, “Imane Khelif, female,” dated May 2, 1999. He insisted that this document is the truth.
The controversy led Angela Carini, the Italian boxer, to apologize to Khelif on August 2. She told an Italian news outlet that she was sorry for what happened and that she respects the decision allowing Khelif to fight. Carini explained that she didn’t mean for things to turn out this way and apologized to Khelif and everyone else.
Imane Khelif also spoke out, asking people to stop bullying athletes. She told SNTV, “Bullying can destroy people’s spirits and minds. It can divide people, and that’s why I’m asking everyone to stop doing it.”
Despite all the controversy, Khelif’s story shows the tough challenges athletes face when they’re under public scrutiny. Her father’s support and her own request for kindness remind us how important it is to show respect and understanding in sports.
As the debate goes on, Khelif is still focused on her goal of succeeding in the Olympics and making her family and country proud. The journey hasn’t been easy, but with her father’s encouragement and her own determination, she aims to overcome these challenges and continue on her path as a champion.
At 61, Meg Ryan Makes a Rare Public Appearance and Looks Unrecognizable
At 61 years old, Meg Ryan made her first public outing in 6 months. She was seen at the screening of Michael J. Fox’s documentary, supporting her old friend. She looked unrecognizable compared to her previous appearances.
Meg Ryan, who has consistently denied undergoing any plastic surgery or enhancements, showcased wrinkle-free skin, a plumper pout, and her trademark blonde locks.
Over the years, the appearance of the Golden Globe nominee has changed significantly, fueling numerous rumors about whether or not she has undergone any cosmetic procedures.
When asked about the speculation surrounding her plastic surgery, she stated in an interview, “I don’t pay a lot of attention, frankly.”
Focusing on building her family, Ryan is almost entirely absent from the public eye. She adopted a child and is a single mom of 2.
There’s no doubt that Meg Ryan is an inspiration for us all. She chooses to look beyond people’s judgments in all aspects of her life and refuses to let public opinion define who she truly is.
Preview photo credit Tristar/Collection Christophel/East News, © Michael Simon/Shutterstock
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