Algiers – On Sunday, Algeria’s Olympic champion Iman Khelif, who won gold at the 2024 Paris Games, shared the story of her inspiring career, marked by perseverance, dedication, and sacrifice. During the event, held at the headquarters of the Algerian Olympic Committee, Khelif also revealed her future ambitions for upcoming competitions.
The press conference, titled “A Story of Success,” was attended by her coaches, Cuban Pedro Diaz and Algerian Mohamed Chaou. Khelif reflected on the historic moments she experienced following her Olympic triumph and how she overcame the doubts and challenges surrounding her participation in the competition.
Despite the smear campaign questioning her right to compete in the Olympics, Khelif chose not to dwell on the controversy, instead focusing on her future goals. “I prefer to look ahead,” she said confidently.
Legal Action Against Harassment Allegations
Khelif expressed her emotional distress caused by the accusations and rumors she faced, revealing that she had filed a lawsuit in Paris against anonymous individuals for psychological harassment. “As many know, these false allegations affected me deeply,” she said, adding that she sought legal redress to protect her reputation.
Overcoming Challenges to Become a Role Model
Born in Tiaret and now 25 years old, Khelif discussed her boxing journey, which began in 2016. Throughout her career, she overcame numerous obstacles to achieve her ultimate dream of winning an Olympic gold medal.
Khelif expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, emphasizing that she now sees herself as a role model for Algerian youth, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination and patience.
Promoting Women’s Boxing and Future Plans
Khelif, who also serves as a UNICEF ambassador and children’s rights advocate in Algeria, called for better support for women’s sports, particularly for female boxers. “Women’s boxing, which was once a male-dominated field, has evolved significantly since I started in 2016,” she explained.
With ambition and resilience, Khelif announced that her journey will not end with her Olympic success. She expressed interest in transitioning to professional boxing and establishing boxing academies to promote the sport in Algeria.
“My goal is to compete in professional matches, while also participating in competitions organized by the new global boxing governing body, the World Boxing Federation. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to the development of Algerian boxing by creating specialized academies,” she said.
Coach Pedro Diaz Praises Khelif’s Determination
Cuban coach Pedro Diaz, who has trained several champions with 22 Olympic titles under his belt, praised Khelif’s dedication to elevating Algerian boxing. “She has shown extraordinary talent and courage, overcoming every obstacle in her path to achieve her childhood dream of becoming a champion,” he remarked.
From Early Challenges to Olympic Glory
Khelif’s journey in boxing began in 2016, followed by participation in the 2018 Women’s World Championships, where she was eliminated in the early rounds. She experienced similar setbacks at the 2019 World Championships but achieved a breakthrough in 2022, finishing as the World Championship silver medalist in Istanbul, Turkey.
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Author: nor-eleslam
Iman Khelif, Olympic champion, women’s boxing, Algerian sports, professional boxing, boxing academies, UNICEF ambassador
