Imane Khelif, the idol of the legendary “Chatrier” court at Roland Garros: Paris 2024 is also the deafening support of thousands of Algerians rallying behind Imane Khelif, the hyperandrogenic boxer who caused a stir in her Olympic debut against Angela Carini. The same court where Djokovic knelt just a few days ago after winning gold is now filled with thousands of Algerians, cheering and chanting enthusiastically.
Imane Khelif, now a national heroine and symbol of women and diversity, makes Algerians in France feel like champions in a battle to assert the rights they stand for. Imane, at 25 years old, proudly embraces her womanhood. Today, she proved her strength by winning a tough semifinal match in the -66 kg category against Thai boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng. Imane started bravely, with her opponent seemingly intimidated by the overwhelming cheers from the stands that ignited the ring. Although the Thai boxer fought back, Imane’s superiority was never in doubt. In the end, after a proud comeback in the third round, she emerged victorious with a score of 5-0. The Algerian was in ecstasy, celebrating by running and jumping around the ring with her fans, adorned with scarves and flags of the “Chatrier”.
After enduring tears and controversies, Imane now sees the coveted goal within reach – the dream of winning a gold medal, which would be a remarkable achievement for her, considering the controversies that have surrounded her from the start. Just a few hours ago, the boxing association IBA declared “Khelif is a man.” Outside the “Chatrier”, the Algerian celebration rages on in the streets leading to the prestigious Roland Garros court, with flags, anthems, and chants echoing loudly.
Hyperandrogenic Imane Khelif has been at the center of the most talked-about case at Paris 2024 so far – her first qualifying match, where she defeated Italian Angela Carini, who withdrew after just 46 seconds and 2 punches thrown by the Algerian.
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