In a powerful moment at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Algerian welterweight boxer Imane Khelif secured an Olympic medal after defeating her opponent, Luca Anna Hamori, in the quarter-finals. Overwhelmed with emotion, Khelif tearfully declared, “I am a woman,” silencing any doubts about her gender identity after an impressive victory over Hungary’s Luca Anna Hamori, ensuring her spot in the semi-finals.

Khelif faced significant challenges leading up to the Olympics, as the International Boxing Association banned her from last year’s World Championships, citing that she did not pass their gender test. Despite this setback, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed her to compete in the Paris Olympics, recognizing her right to participate.

Before her quarter-final victory, the 25-year-old Algerian boxer made headlines with a stunning first-round win, knocking out her opponent in just 46 seconds. Khelif’s powerful punch caused Italy’s Angela Carini to forfeit the match, prioritizing her own safety.

In the quarter-finals, Khelif once again showcased her superior strength, securing a decisive victory through the judges’ scorecards. Her entry into the semi-finals guarantees her an Olympic medal, making her the first Algerian woman to achieve this feat in the Olympics.

Following her victory, Khelif broke down in tears, addressing the media with a heartfelt message: “I want to tell the whole world that I am a woman and I will always be a woman.”

The Algerian boxer added, “I am so happy. This victory is for the honor of Algeria, Algerian women, and Algerian boxing.”

Imane Khelif is set to face Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng in the semi-finals on August 6th. Should she emerge victorious, she will compete for the gold medal on August 9th.