Italian Boxer Carini Apologizes to Rival Amid Eligibility Controversy

Angela Carini of Italy quit her Olympic match against Algeria's Imane Khelif just 46 seconds into the bout, sparking controversy regarding Khelif’s eligibility. Carini expressed her desire to apologize for not shaking Khelif's hand afterward, attributing it to the frustration of her abrupt decision to end the fight due to the intensity of a punch she received, Sport Bible reported.

Khelif, who was previously disqualified from the Women’s World Championships for not meeting eligibility criteria, was cleared to compete in the Paris Olympics despite ongoing debates. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) defended her right to participate, highlighting that she had competed as a female throughout her career.

Carini told Gazzetta dello Sport, "All this controversy makes me sad. If the IOC said she can fight, I respect that decision." Regretful about her actions post-fight, she added, "I didn't intend to act disrespectfully; I was overwhelmed by the moment." She wished to embrace Khelif if given another opportunity.

The incident drew significant attention, with global figures like Italian PM Giorgia Meloni and former US President Donald Trump commenting. The IOC reaffirmed athletes’ rights to compete without discrimination, adhering to the competition's regulations and medical standards.

Moreover, Khelif did not meet the International Boxing Association's (IBA) criteria last year due to a failed testosterone test, a matter IBA maintained was handled confidentially. Despite IBA's disqualification, which sought to ensure fairness, Khelif, and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting are now participating with approval from the Paris Boxing Unit overseeing the 2024 Games.

While Carini conceded she stopped to protect her health, stating it could have been her match of a lifetime, she reiterated her respect for her opponent, hoping for Khelif to keep thriving in the ongoing competition.

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