"Tried To Act Sportsmanlike": Imane Khelif's Opponent After Olympics Quarter-Final Loss

In a bout that attracted global attention, Hungary's Luca Anna Hamori (66kg) braved intimidating gender row boxer Iman Khelif for three competitive rounds at the Paris Olympics and walked out feeling proud of herself as "not fighting was not an option" for her, here Saturday. The Algerian, embroiled in a major gender controversy in the French capital, left the ring in tears after she guaranteed herself at least bronze by entering the women's 66kg semifinals.

Her previous opponent, Italian boxer Angela Carini had pulled out of her bout against Khelif on Thursday just after 46 seconds, unable to take heavy punches from the Algerian, who was banned from the 2023 World Championship in New Delhi for failing the gender eligibility test.

The dramatic turn of events had created a huge furore in the boxing world and at the Games, with many questioning Khelif's presence in the women's competition even as IOC put up a stout defence of their decision to allow the Algerian to compete as a female.

Luca had made it clear that she won't step back and she kept her promise with a courageous show. She took several punches on her body and also succeeded in landing a few on her opponent.

In the end, Khelif, who was cheered by the crowd, emerged victorious, taking a 5-0 unanimous decision win.

Carini had refused to shake hands with Khelif and later regretted the decision but Luca showed respect to the Algerian and even hugged her. Returning the gesture, Khelif held the ropes for Luca to walk out of the ring.

"This was a hard fight, but I think I could do everything what I wanted before the fight. And I think it was a good fight. I'm so proud of myself and I'm so grateful to be here," Luca said, addressing a herd of media.

"I was able to enjoy