Imane Khelif’s Olympic victory motivates Algerian young women to pursue boxing

In the weeks following Imane Khelif’s triumph securing an Olympic gold medal in women’s boxing for Algeria, the nation has witnessed a surge in enthusiasm for the sport, particularly among women. Khelif’s success has propelled her to national hero status, with her image prominently displayed in various locations such as airports, billboards, and boxing gyms across the country.

Amateur boxer Zougar Amina, a medical student and avid practitioner for a year, expressed admiration for Khelif, referring to her as an idol and role model. Amina shared how boxing has positively impacted her life, boosting her confidence, reducing stress, and serving as a form of therapy to combat shyness and enhance self-defense skills.

In the coastal town of Ain Taya, where Amina practices boxing, the local media has described a phenomenon known as “Khelifmania.” The town’s gym, adorned with images of the gold medalist, is bustling with young girls aspiring to emulate Khelif’s success. Coach Malika Abassi revealed that the young female boxers at the gym dream of following in Khelif’s footsteps, showcasing similar celebratory moves and gestures post-training.

Despite some criticisms from conservative figures regarding Khelif’s attire while boxing, many Algerians have rallied behind the athlete, lauding her resilience and character in the face of unwarranted scrutiny. Former boxer and sports journalist Noureddine Bouteldja praised Khelif for her journey from humble beginnings in rural Algeria to international fame, deeming her a social phenomenon within the country.

Boxing coaches and administrators anticipate a significant increase in female participation in the sport following Khelif’s historic win, with an expected surge in registrations at the start of the school year. Algeria currently boasts 30 regional boxing leagues and 10,000 athletes nationwide, with officials highlighting the positive impact Khelif’s success will have on women’s boxing in the country.

Civil society figures and activists predict that Khelif’s influence will extend beyond the realm of sports, challenging societal norms that discourage women’s involvement in athletics. Attorney Aouicha Bakhti, a prominent feminist and political activist, emphasized that Khelif’s story will leave a lasting imprint on Algerian culture, countering regressive ideals that hinder women’s participation in various spheres.