Khelif Wins First-Ever Olympic Gold in Boxing for Algeria

Imane Khelif became the first Algerian and African woman to win an Olympic boxing gold medal after defeating China’s Yang Liu in a dominant welterweight final at the Paris Games. The 25-year-old’s victory was unanimous, with the judges awarding her the win after three rounds at Rolland-Garros Stadium.

Khelif’s journey to gold was not without challenges, as she was previously embroiled in a gender eligibility controversy. A 2023 ruling by the now-banned International Boxing Association (IBA) had disqualified her, but the International Olympic Committee (IOC) rejected the test results, declaring them illegitimate.

Backed by a passionate Algerian crowd, Khelif entered the arena to loud cheers and carried the momentum through the fight. Despite Yang’s strong start, Khelif took control by the end of the first round and never looked back. By the third round, Yang was out of steam, and Khelif confidently secured her historic victory.

Khelif expressed her joy, saying, “It was my dream [to win this medal], and I am very happy today that I’m an Olympic gold medallist.” After eight years of hard work and perseverance, she celebrated her triumph with a dance in the ring, waving the Algerian flag as her supporters cheered.

“Algeria is very happy today,” Khelif declared, thanking her team, coach, and the global Algerian community for their support. Her gold medal win marks a significant milestone, not only for her but for Algeria and the entire African continent.