Elon Musk issued a one-word response to the news that an Algerian boxer deemed to have male chromosomes won a fight at the Paris Olympics – and sparked controversy. On Thursday, Imane Khelif defeated Italy’s Angela Carini in the 66-kilogram weight class, leading to a divisive conversation on social media which Musk chimed in on.
The fight between Khelif and Carini lasted just 46 seconds before Carini went to her cornermen to call off the fight. At the North Paris Arena, a single first punch from Khelif dislodged Carini’s chinstrap and a second on her chin left her shorts bloodied.
The Italian returned to her corner and raised her hand before falling to her knees. A tearful Carini refused to shake Khelif’s hand after the Algerian was declared the winner.
Carini’s coach Emanuele Renzini admitted that quitting the match wasn’t on the table heading into the bout. He questioned the fairness of the contest, saying: “It would have been easier not to show up, because all of Italy had been asking her not to fight for days. But Angela was motivated and wanted to do it.
“Of course, when she met her opponent at the draw, she said ‘It’s not fair.’ But there was no premeditation here today She quit after taking one punch, she told me she didn’t feel she could fight.”
The conversation has dominated social media throughout the day. University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines took to X to post: “Men don’t belong in women’s sports #IStandWithAngelaCarini Let’s get it trending” – along with a fire emoji.
Musk responded to the post, weighing in with his thoughts on the matter. He replied: “Absolutely”
Khelif has faced immense controversy regarding a failed gender eligibility test in 2023. She was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships, which is sanctioned by the International Boxing Association.
