Algerian boxer Imane Khelif is now one step away from her dream at the Paris Olympics. Khelif, who has been at the center of a significant gender controversy during the Paris Olympics 2024, secured her place in the women’s boxing final on Tuesday night. She triumphed over Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng, the 2023 world silver medallist, in a unanimous points decision. This victory ensures Algeria at least a silver medal, with the crowd at Roland Garros passionately cheering her name throughout the bout.
Khelif’s win against Suwannapheng in the women’s 66kg category was decisive. The final bout of the women’s boxing tournament is scheduled for Friday. “Like all athletes, I am here to fulfill my dream,” Khelif told AFP following her victory.
Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting have been subjects of controversy regarding their eligibility at the Paris Games. Despite both being disqualified from last year’s world championships due to failing gender eligibility tests, they were cleared to compete in the Paris Games 2024. Khelif received a warm welcome at Roland-Garros, with many Algerian fans waving flags and chanting her name.
The Thai boxer Suwannapheng faced a standing count in the third round as Khelif dominated the match, despite a height disadvantage. Both athletes showed sportsmanship, greeting each other warmly after the bout in front of the 15,000 spectators at Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Khelif expressed her focus on the upcoming gold medal match, saying, “The important thing is that I am in the final now. I am very proud of this new achievement. We have worked as a team for years, and the dream has become a reality. I hope to maintain focus and rise to the occasion in the dream final.”
