Italian boxer Angela Carini has apologized for her actions against transgender boxer Imane Khelif, and prominent figures in sports have spoken out against the criticism directed at Khelif. Carini expressed regret and wanted to "apologize" to Khelif, while former ESPN writer Jemele Hill and South Carolina women's basketball head coach Dawn Staley followed suit, calling for those who attacked Khelif to take responsibility.
Italian boxer Angela Carini has expressed regret over her actions against transgender boxer Imane Khelif, who was barred from competing in the women's world championships last year due to having male XY chromosomes. Carini, who forfeited her match against Khelif, said she was "sad" about the controversy and "respected" the IOC's decision to allow Khelif to fight.
Female Boxer Apologizes, Prominent Figures Condemn Critics of Transgender Athlete
Following Carini's apology, former ESPN writer Jemele Hill called for others to apologize and suggested that Khelif take legal action against those who made "reckless remarks." Hill emphasized that the controversy exposed "ugliness, hatred, and transphobia."
South Carolina women's basketball head coach Dawn Staley added that critics "need to pray and be prayed for because... the way their lives are set up [is] pure hatred."
Female Boxer Apologizes, Prominent Figures Condemn Critics of Transgender Athlete
Carini also expressed regret for giving Khelif the cold shoulder after the fight, saying she was "angry" because her Olympic hopes had been dashed. Khelif will fight in the next round on Saturday against Hungarian Luca Hamori.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) defended Khelif's eligibility, stating that she and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-Ting were "victims of a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA" and that they were disqualified "without any due process."
Female Boxer Apologizes, Prominent Figures Condemn Critics of Transgender Athlete
According to IBA minutes, the decision to disqualify Khelif and Lin was initially made by the IBA secretary general and CEO and later ratified by the IBA Board. The IBA is now working on establishing a "clear procedure on gender testing."
This controversy has reignited discussions about the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports. Some argue that transgender athletes have an unfair advantage, while others advocate for their inclusion and fair treatment.
In a separate statement, Olympic swimmer Riley Gaines, who has been outspoken against transgender athletes, praised Khelif for forfeiting her match and criticized the IOC for allowing her to compete.
The debate over transgender athletes is likely to continue as more transgender individuals seek to compete in sports. The IOC has indicated that it is working on developing guidelines to ensure fairness and inclusivity for all athletes.
