exist
Paris Olympics
The women's 66kg final became a major focus in the boxing arena, with China's
name of traditional tune
The showdown with Algeria's Iman Khalif was not only a sporting contest, but also a discussion of gender identity. Although Yang Liu ultimately lost 0-5, her
silver medal
Adding to the brilliant record of the Chinese women's boxing team in this Olympic Games, the team has accumulated 2 gold and 2 silver.
Yang Liu has shown remarkable strength in her Olympic journey. From sweeping Dos Santos 5-0 in the Round of 16 to beating Del Rio 5-0 again in the Round of 8, each step of victory paved the way for her to the final. Her 4-1 victory over Chen Nianqin of Chinese Taipei in the semifinals not only secured a medal for the Chinese team, but also highlighted her tenacity and perseverance.
However, Khalif, her opponent in the final, has been mired in gender controversy since the Round of 16. It has been questioned that she failed the IBA 2023 gender test, but Khalif has consistently insisted on competing as a woman, and the IOC has repeatedly stated its support for her eligibility. The controversy added a complex social context to the fight.
The final bout was exceptionally close. In the first round, both fighters were looking for an opportunity to fight, and Khalif's several heavy hits allowed her to take the lead. In the second round, although Yang Liu intensified her attack, Khalif's flexible defense kept the situation intact. In the final round, Yang Liu went all out, but Khalif's solid defense allowed her to win the gold medal with a score of 5-0, while Yang Liu won the silver medal.
Despite failing to win the gold medal, Yang Liu earned respect for her performance in the ring, and her silver medal is part of the glory of the Chinese women's boxing team. And Khalif's gender controversy has once again triggered a wide-ranging discussion on gender identity recognition for athletes, making it a hot topic at this year's Olympics.
