Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer known for challenging misconceptions about gender in sports, is making a comeback at the Paris Olympics. Khelif is set to compete against Janjaem Suwannapheng of Thailand in the women’s 66-kilogram semifinals at Roland Garros. If successful, she will vie for a gold medal on Friday. Khelif and Lin Yu-ting of Taiwan have been embroiled in debates regarding gender identity and athletic regulations since the start of the Paris Games. The controversy escalated following Khelif’s victory over Angela Carini of Italy in just 46 seconds, leading to Carini’s emotional withdrawal from the match.
Despite facing online abuse and backlash, Khelif, 25, has garnered substantial support during her bouts. Her recent win against Anna Luca Hamori of Hungary secured her at least a bronze medal at the Olympics. In another sport, the men’s basketball quarterfinals are set to unfold, featuring several high-profile games with 15 NBA All-Stars, totaling 97 selections collectively. Notable matchups include Greece led by Giannis Antetokounmpo against reigning World Cup champions Germany, a faceoff between Serbia with Nikola Jokic and Australia, an encounter between Canada and France guided by Victor Wembanyama, and a game between the United States and Brazil.
Stars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant will represent the US, aiming for their fourth Olympic medal and third gold. The US team is heavily favored against Brazil, with Canada, Germany, and Serbia also holding significant advantages in their matchups. Moreover, track and field events will feature the women’s 200-meter final and the men’s 1,500 meters. American Gabby Thomas is expected to excel in the 200 meters, while competitors like Julien Alfred and sprinters Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Josh Kerr are set to face off in the 1,500 meters. Additionally, the women’s soccer semifinals will see the US play against Germany at Lyon Stadium, followed by a match between Brazil and Women’s World Cup champions Spain at Marseille Stadium.
