Italian Boxer Withdraws From Paris Olympics Amid Controversy
Italian boxer Angela Carini forfeited her bout against Algerian Imane Khelif after just 46 seconds, sparking controversy at the Paris Olympics.
Carini later expressed her disappointment, stating that Khelif's participation in the Games raised concerns about gender eligibility and fairness.
The withdrawal came after Khelif, who previously failed gender eligibility tests at the 2023 World Championships, was allowed to compete in Paris. Carini expressed concerns that Khelif's presence in the competition compromised the integrity of the sport.
In a tearful press conference, Carini apologized to her country for her brief performance and expressed her frustration over the situation. "I have worked so hard for this moment, and I feel like it has been taken away from me," she said.
The withdrawal has cast a shadow over the boxing tournament at the Paris Olympics and raised questions about the International Boxing Association's (IBA) handling of gender eligibility issues.
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