The Paris Olympics have been marred by controversy following a dramatic boxing match that ended in tears for Italian fighter Angela Carini.
Carini, who was forced to withdraw from her fight against Algerian opponent Imane Khelif just 46 seconds into the fight, has sparked widespread outrage and discussion about fairness in women's sports.
Carini, a 25-year-old welterweight from Naples, broke down emotionally after the match was halted due to a severe injury. The incident occurred at the North Paris Arena, where Carini's headgear came loose twice during the brief encounter with Khelif. The final blow, a punch to the nose, resulted in Carini suffering a broken nose and significant pain, prompting her to abandon the fight.
In a heartfelt statement following the match, Carini expressed her distress, saying, “I am heartbroken. I entered the ring to honor my father and was ready to fight, but the pain from the punches was too intense. I’ve never been hit this hard before.” Carini, known for her warrior spirit, explained that despite her determination, the injury made it impossible for her to continue. “After the second punch, I felt unbearable pain and had to stop. I’m leaving with my head held high,” she added.
The controversy surrounding the bout intensified due to Khelif’s contentious history. Khelif, who had been disqualified from the women’s world championships last year for failing testosterone and gender eligibility tests, was controversially permitted to compete in the Olympics.
The decision has fueled debates over the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports.
Support for Carini surged on social media, with the hashtag #IStandWithAngelaCarini trending as many criticized the perceived unfairness of the fight. Prominent figures such as Riley Gaines voiced their disapproval, asserting, “Men don’t belong in women’s sports.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also weighed in on the debate, stating, “Athletes with male genetic characteristics should not be admitted to women’s competitions. This is not about discrimination but about protecting the rights of female athletes to compete on an equal footing.”
Khelif, in a brief interview with the BBC, remained resolute, saying, “I am here for gold. I will fight anybody, I will fight them all.”
