Boxer Imane Khelif, whose gender eligibility has been called into question, was in tears after guaranteeing a welterweight medal at the Paris Olympics by beating Hungarian Luca Anna Hamori.
The Algerian is one of two boxers competing in Paris despite being banned from last year’s World Championships by the International Boxing Association (IBA) after she was reported to have failed gender eligibility tests, a situation which has sparked huge controversy.
The 25-year-old’s previous bout lasted just 46 seconds but Khelif, having entered the ring to cheers from loud Algerian support, went the full three rounds on Saturday, winning by unanimous decision.
“I feel good,” an emotional Khelif told BBC sports editor Dan Roan.
It’s the first medal in women’s boxing in Algeria – I’m very happy. I want to thank all the world and the Arabic world – thank you so much.”
Hamori said prior to the fight she did not “think it is fair” Khelif was competing, but the bout was largely fought in good spirits.
The pair shared an embrace after the bell and again after the result was confirmed.
“It was a very hard day for both of us but I just want to say it was a great fight and I wish good luck to Khelif in the future, and thank you so much,” Hamori said.
Asked again if she thought the fight was unfair, Hamori, who was booed into the arena, said: “I don’t care about it.”
Shortly after the fight, Algeria president Abdelmadjid Tebboune posted on social media: “You have honoured Algeria, Algerian women and Algerian boxing. We will stand by your side, whatever your results are. Good luck in the next two rounds and moving forward.”
Khelif will meet Janjaem Suwannapheng, who beat favourite Busenaz Surmeneli – the 2021 Olympic champion from Turkey – in the semi-final on Tuesday.
Even if she loses Khelif will leave the Paris Games with a bronze medal.
