Since Imane Khelif's triumphant victory at the Olympic women's boxing event, where she secured a gold medal for Algeria, the sport has witnessed a surge in popularity across the North African country. Athletes and coaches alike attribute this newfound enthusiasm, especially among female participants, to the national pride ignited by Khelif's achievement.
The 25-year-old welterweight champion has become an ubiquitous presence in Algeria, with her image gracing advertisements at airports, highway billboards, boxing gyms throughout the nation. Khelif's success in Paris has elevated her to the status of a national hero, particularly after Algerians united in support of her when faced with baseless speculation regarding her gender and eligibility to compete.