Imane Khelif: From Social Media Trolls to Olympic Glory

It’s official: Imane Khelif, Algeria’s welterweight wonder, is boxing her way to fame and fortune at the Paris 2024 Olympics. After beating Italy’s Angela Carini last week, Khelif has become the latest hero in the global boxing ring. But with great power comes great … online abuse? Yes, social media trolls have been having a field day, and let’s just say, they’re not throwing punches—just keyboard jabs.

Khelif’s road to the final wasn’t paved with roses. It was more like a minefield of eligibility issues and international boxing politics. Last year, she and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting faced disqualification from the World Championships after failing to meet some rather picky criteria. It’s almost like the International Olympic Committee was double-checking Khelif’s credentials like a bouncer at an exclusive club. “You sure you’re on the list?”

Despite the drama, Khelif knocked out any doubts about her skill when she decisively beat Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng in the semis. Suwannapheng, who’s from the north-eastern province of Nong Khai, had to settle for a bronze, proving once again that you can be fast but still be out-muscled by someone who’s clearly been lifting more than just spirits.

Khelif’s response to the chaos? “I’m focused,” she declares, probably while trying not to laugh at the circus around her. “I’m here for a good performance and my dream. I will give everything I have for the final.” Meanwhile, Suwannapheng, who admitted she wasn’t exactly following the Khelif drama closely, comments, “She is a woman, but she is very strong.” Let’s just say, the only thing more intimidating than Khelif’s punches might be the scrutiny she’s facing.

On Friday, Khelif faced Yang Liu from China in the gold-medal bout, where she won and successfully knocked out any remaining doubts and social media naysayers. Go, Khelif!

Photo courtesy of social media