Algerian boxer Imane Khelif secured her place in the Olympic final on Friday with a decisive semi-final victory over Janjaem Suwannapheng, despite ongoing disputes over her eligibility.
Khelif, competing in the welterweight division, won by unanimous decision in a match held at Court Philippe Chatrier, the French tennis venue repurposed for the boxing finals. Her victory propels her to her first Olympic final after being eliminated in the Tokyo quarter-finals three years ago.
The 25-year-old will face Liu Yang of China in the gold-medal bout, aiming to become Algeria’s first female Olympic boxing gold medallist.
The fight took place under intense scrutiny due to Khelif’s controversial eligibility status. Last year, the International Boxing Association (IBA) disqualified her from the World Championships over gender eligibility issues. Despite this, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, who faced similar disqualification, to compete in Paris.
Khelif’s semi-final victory followed a quick win against Angela Carini last week, who withdrew from their bout after just 46 seconds, citing safety concerns. The situation surrounding Khelif and Lin’s eligibility has sparked significant debate and confusion, with conflicting statements from the IBA.
“I am focused and determined,” Khelif said after her win. “I am here to perform well and fulfill my dream. I will give everything I have for the final.”
Khelif’s success has drawn considerable support from the crowd, with chants of her name resonating through the venue. The boxer expressed gratitude for the backing she has received, both in Paris and from her home country of Algeria.
The IOC, which had suspended the IBA in 2019 over governance issues, has firmly supported Khelif and Lin, stating that their passports confirming female gender should suffice for eligibility.
As Khelif prepares for her final, Lin will compete in her semi-final on Wednesday in the 57kg category.
