Speaking to the Italian newspaper Gazzetta, female boxer Carini expressed her concern when witnessing Imane Khelif facing debates about her gender and attacks from public opinion. The Italian boxer expressed:

“I am sad about the recent controversy. I also feel sorry for Khelif. She has nothing to do with this. It was not my intention not to shake Imane Khelif’s hand when we lost.

I want to apologize to her and everyone. At that time, I was very angry because I was eliminated from the tournament. I did not attack Imane Khelif. If I see her again, maybe I will hug her.”

Besides, the boxer born in 1998 also emphasized respecting the decision to let Khelif compete by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Carini is currently trying to get out of unnecessary controversies.

Imane Khelif (right) defeated Italy’s Angela Carini in the women’s 66kg qualifying boxing match at the 2024 Paris Olympics

She also affirmed: “I think many people support me because they believe in the Olympic dream like me. They also believe in the desire for my late father.”

Previously, this same boxer caused a public storm when he expressed his grievance at being eliminated.

“I don’t know if she’s a woman or a man. The final decision belongs to the International Olympic Committee. I’ve never been punched so hard in my life,” Carini said when he lost to Imane Khelif after 46 seconds of competition.

After the match, Carini quickly pulled her hand away from the referee when the result was announced. She appeared extremely hurt as she knelt on the floor, burst into tears and shouted that “it was unfair”. Although Imane Khelif tried to come to her aid several times, Carini did not respond.