The roar of the crowd will be deafening as Angela Carini, affectionately known as "Tiger" by her father and coach, steps into the ring for her Olympic debut in Paris. This Campanian boxer, renowned for her tenacious spirit, will face a formidable opponent in Imane Khelif, an athlete whose presence in the tournament has sparked controversy due to her above-average testosterone levels.
Carini, a familiar face in the boxing world, is making her second Olympic appearance after Tokyo. Born in Afragola, her family later relocated to Piedimonte Matese and eventually Marcianise. Her early sporting achievements led her to become a European youth champion in Assisi in 2014, and she joined the esteemed Fiamme Oro group, a renowned sports club, where she continued to hone her skills. Carini's impressive track record includes participation in the 2018 World Championships in New Delhi, India, where she reached the second round, and the 2019 European Championships in Alcobendas, where she secured a silver medal. She went on to achieve another silver medal in the 64 kg category at the 2019 World Championships in Ulan-Ude.
Carini's story extends beyond the boxing ring, carrying with it a poignant tale of personal strength and resilience. As the daughter of a police officer who was left wheelchair-bound after a duty accident, Carini's life was profoundly impacted by her father's unwavering love for boxing. This shared passion became a source of inspiration for her, shaping her own journey into the world of combat sports.
The stage is set for an unforgettable match as Angela Carini, fuelled by the spirit of her father and a hunger for victory, enters the Olympic ring. Her journey, a testament to her unwavering dedication and personal struggles, is poised to captivate the world as she steps into the spotlight in Paris.