The Algerian boxer Imane Khelifgold amidst a thousand controversies in the 66 kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympics, appeared on the November cover of Vogue Arabia. In his interview with the fashion magazine, Khelif called what happened, “a very difficult experience.” “I was able to overcome everything thanks to my faith in God, in myself and in my dream. Without such challenges, I would never have become a champion – said Khelif who posed in suits and tailoring dresses, as has already happened at Milan Fashion Week -. My country stood by me with great conviction, led by the president Abdelmadjid Tebbounewho was the first to support me. All the authorities and the entire Algerian people were on my side and I am very proud of that.”
“The Olympics is a lifetime”
The Khelif-Carini case took center stage during the Paris Games. The Italian boxer left the ring after 45 seconds due to the blows she received from the Algerian: before and after, however, political controversies raged over Khelif and her participation in the women’s boxing tournament. “It was a very difficult experience,” Khelif recalls. “Despite winning the gold medal, that event felt like a lifetime. The experiences were many and varied. I was able to overcome everything thanks to my faith in God, in myself and in my dream. Without such challenges , I would never have become a champion.”
“I sold bread on the street and collected plastic”
“Boxing is simply a matter of will, determination, strength and patience. It requires sacrifice. But anything difficult for a woman can be a source of inspiration,” explains Khelif. “I sold bread on the side of the road and collected plastic, aluminum and iron to save money to go to and from the gym. My coach, Mohamed Chaoua, always told me that one day I would become an Olympic champion. He taught me the importance and the value of that. I made sacrifices in many areas: in my personal life, in my education. I did everything to reach the top.”
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