Italian Boxer Carini Seeks Reconciliation with Algerian Opponent Khelif

Italian boxer Angela Carini has expressed her desire to apologize to Algerian opponent Imane Khelif after abandoning their Olympic bout just 46 seconds into the match. The decision, which came amidst controversy surrounding Khelif’s eligibility, left Carini regretting her post-fight conduct.

Khelif, one of two athletes cleared to compete in women’s boxing at the Paris Olympics, had faced disqualification from last year’s Women’s World Championships due to eligibility criteria. Her participation in the Games has sparked debate, prompting the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to defend her right to compete.

“All this controversy makes me sad,” Carini shared with the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport. “I’m sorry for my opponent, too. If the IOC said she can fight, I respect that decision.”

Carini, also 25, viewed her decision to abandon the fight as a mature choice but admitted to regretting not shaking hands with Khelif afterward. “It wasn’t something I intended to do,” she explained. “Actually, I want to apologize to her and everyone else. I was angry because my Olympics had gone up in smoke.”

Despite the incident, Carini expressed a willingness to make amends, stating that if she were to meet Khelif again, she would “embrace her.” Her comments reflect a desire to move past the controversy and foster sportsmanship, even in the face of personal disappointment at the Olympic level.