The Paris Olympic Games are currently mired in controversy following a heated gender row in women’s boxing. The dispute arose after Algerian boxer Imane Khelif was categorised as a ‘biological male’, leading to Italian opponent Angela Carini abandoning their match just 46 seconds in. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from prominent figures, including Elon Musk, who have criticised the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) decision to allow Khelif’s participation in the women’s category.
Dutee Chand Weighs In
Indian sprinter Dutee Chand, who has faced similar challenges regarding gender and athletic participation, shared her perspective on the controversy. Chand, who successfully challenged the IOC’s rules on testosterone levels in 2014 at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland, stated, “In 2014, I challenged the IOC’s rule that a person with a higher testosterone level should not participate. It was noted that hormonal levels cannot increase athletic performance. I suffered a lot at that time and faced significant controversy regarding my gender.”
ALSO READ: Ticket collector in Pune Swapnil Kusale wins bronze medal in Paris Olympics shooting event
Dutee Chand further commented on the recent events, saying, “Yesterday, during the Olympic match, Carini gave up and now she is complaining about the Algerian boxer because of high testosterone levels. When you play in the Olympics, you undergo several tests. I don’t think it is right to create controversy about this on social media.”
Imane Khelif vs Angela Carini
The controversy intensified after the bout between Imane Khelif and Angela Carini. Khelif, who did not meet the eligibility criteria for the world championships last year, was still allowed to compete in the women’s boxing category at the Paris Olympics. Following the one-sided fight, Angela Carini refused to shake hands with Imane Khelif and fell to her knees in the ring, visibly upset. “My nose started dripping with blood from the first hit,” Angela Carini remarked.
ALSO READ: How Indian govt helped Manu Bhaker, Sarabjot Singh prepare for Paris Olympics 2024
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other prominent figures have criticized the fight, stating it was “not on an equal footing.” The reaction has been swift, with many calling for a review of the eligibility criteria for athletes in women’s sports.
IOC’s Response
In response to the backlash, the IOC released a statement dismissing the ‘misleading’ claims against Imane Khelif. The committee emphasised that all athletes competing in the Olympics undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with the rules and that Imane Khelif met the necessary requirements to participate.
Did you know that you can join The Theorist on WhatsApp and stay updated? Click here
The incident has reignited debates on gender and fairness in sports, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by athletes and governing bodies in navigating these complex issues. As the Paris Olympics continue, the resolution of this controversy will be closely watched by the global sporting community.
