A storm has erupted at the Paris Olympics 2024 over boxer Imane Khelif’s participation in the women’s boxing event, despite having male chromosomes. The controversy began when Khelif faced Italian boxer Angela Carini, who forfeited the match after just 46 seconds, citing concerns for her safety. Now, Anna Luca Hamori is set to face Khelif in the women’s 66kg quarterfinals on August 3rd at 17:22 PM local time.
Imane Khelif, a 25-year-old from Tiaret, Algeria, is currently a UNICEF ambassador. Despite her father’s disapproval of boxing, Khelif is determined to inspire future generations by winning gold on the grand stage. Khelif had been under intense scrutiny due to her disqualification from the 2023 World Championships for failing ‘gender tests.’
Nevertheless, the IOC has permitted her to compete in Paris, sparking criticism from some fans. Khelif’s opening match against Italy’s Angela Carini ended after just 46 seconds when Carini forfeited. Now, Khelif aims to secure a semifinal spot by defeating Hamori.
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Anna Luca Hamori, representing Hungary, has an impressive boxing record. Born in Szombathely on March 12, 2001, the 23-year-old currently lives in Koszeg and is in a relationship with amateur boxer Kreko Istvan. She also has a pet cat named Bigyo. Hamori started boxing in 2011, inspired by her older brother, whom she considers her idol. She has excelled from a young age, qualifying for the 2018 Youth Olympics, where she lost to Argentina’s bronze medalist Oriana Saputo.
Hamori’s career highlights include an impressive performance at the 2022 European U22 Championships, where she reached the finals but lost to Germany’s Stefanie von Berge, earning a silver medal. At the 2023 World Championships, Hamori did not advance beyond the early rounds but secured third place in the 66kg event at the European Games the same year. An 11-time national champion, Hamori is a key member of the Hungarian national team.
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