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In a dramatic turn of events, Italy's Angela Carini abandoned her Olympic boxing match against Algerian fighter Imane Khelif just 46 seconds into the bout, citing concerns for her safety. Carini's decision came after taking a punch to the face early in the first round, prompting her to retreat to her corner and eventually call off the fight.
Carini's opponent, Imane Khelif, has been a controversial figure in women's boxing. Disqualified from last year's Women's World Championships for failing to meet eligibility criteria due to elevated testosterone levels, Khelif, along with Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting, was cleared by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to compete in the Paris 2024 boxing events. This decision came despite their previous disqualifications by the International Boxing Association (IBA).
The bout, held at Arena Paris Nord, was highly anticipated. Khelif, who had a first-round bye, received a warm welcome from the crowd, predominantly Algerian supporters. However, the match ended abruptly after Carini, in visible discomfort, returned to her corner twice, ultimately deciding not to continue. Her on-camera remark, "it's not right," and her subsequent emotional response highlighted the gravity of her decision.
Post-fight, Carini explained her choice to the media: "I wasn't able to finish the match. I felt a strong pain to my nose...I had to preserve my life as well in that moment." Emphasizing her lack of fear for the ring but recognizing the limits of her body, Carini hoped her decision would be understood by her nation and family.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni supported Carini's decision, stating the importance of fair competition. Despite the controversy, Carini wished Khelif well, showing sportsmanship by saying, "I wish her to carry on until the end and that she can be happy."
Khelif, who remains focused on her Olympic goals, responded confidently: "I'm here for the gold - I fight everybody." Her journey continues as she faces Hungary's Anna Luca Hamori in the 66kg quarter-finals, a match that could secure her an Olympic medal.
The IOC, overseeing the boxing events for Paris 2024, reiterated that all participating athletes meet the competition's eligibility requirements. This stance was taken after significant scrutiny and criticism of the IBA's handling of the disqualifications.
As the Olympic boxing events progress, the spotlight remains on the fairness and integrity of the sport, with athletes like Carini and Khelif at the center of this ongoing debate.
