Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has silenced her critics and etched her name in Olympic history by winning the gold medal in the women’s welterweight division at the Paris 2024 Games. In a dominant performance, Khelif defeated China’s Yang Liu, the 2023 world champion, by unanimous decision, with all five judges scoring the bout in her favor across all three rounds.
Khelif’s path to gold has been marred by unfounded scrutiny and misconceptions about her gender, particularly after her first Olympic bout ended controversially when Italy’s Angela Carini quit after just 46 seconds, citing pain from Khelif’s punches. The Algerian boxer had previously stated that winning gold would be the “best response” to the worldwide scrutiny she has faced.
The final bout saw Khelif showcase her skills in front of a supportive crowd that chanted her name throughout the three-round contest. After the victory, Khelif celebrated exuberantly, jumping into her coaches’ arms and taking a victory lap with the Algerian flag.
Irish boxer Amy Broadhurst, who had previously defeated Khelif at the 2022 world championships, was among the first to congratulate the new Olympic champion. Broadhurst, who has defended Khelif amid the controversy, posted on Instagram: “Very happy for this girl!! Weathered the storm and got what she deserved.”
Khelif’s gold medal performance is particularly noteworthy as she did not lose a single round on any scorecard throughout her Olympic campaign. This flawless run to the top of the podium serves as a powerful statement against the unfounded speculation that has surrounded her.
The victory marks a significant moment for Algerian sports and women’s boxing. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by female athletes, particularly those from non-Western countries, who often contend with additional scrutiny and stereotypes.
