https://www.tyla.com/news/olympics-2024-paris-boxing-imane-khelif-angela-carini-538929-20240801

Boxer breaks silence after withdrawing from fight after 46 seconds amid gender controversy

A Paris Olympics boxer who broke down in tears when she withdrew from a bout after only 46 seconds has spoken out about the match.

Angela Carini went up against Algerian fighter Imane Khelif in Paris today, having been on the receiving end of some painful-looking blows.

But she has now spoken out about the experience she branded as 'unjust', following her withdrawal from the fight after 46 seconds.

During the clash, Carini suffered a suspected broken nose, after taking many punches that she said 'hurt like hell'.

Khelif was previously disqualified at the 2023 World Championships after failing gender eligibility tests.

But the International Olympic Committee said it was satisfied she complied with all rules to compete for this year's Paris games.

According to Italian news agency ANSA, following the fight, Carini said: "I went into the ring to fight.

"I didn't give up, but a punch hurt too much and so I said enough.

"I'm leaving with my head held high."

She added: "I have always honoured my country with loyalty.