In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Lin Yu-ting from Chinese Taipei and Imane Khelif from Algeria have advanced to the final rounds of their respective weight divisions at the Paris Olympics. Despite facing intense scrutiny and false accusations about their gender eligibility, both boxers emerged victorious in their semifinal matches, proving their rightful place among the elite athletes of the world.

Representing Chinese Taipei, Lin Yu-ting defeated Esra Yildiz Kahraman of Turkey by a unanimous decision in the women's 57-kilogram competition. The judges all scored the match 10-9 in favor of Lin in all three rounds. Despite Kahraman's aggressive fighting style, Lin's height advantage and superior technical ability proved to be the difference. At 5 feet 9 inches, Lin effectively kept Kahraman at a distance, preventing her from causing any significant damage.

Imane Khelif, competing under the Algerian flag, triumphed over Thailand's Janjaem Suwannapheng in the women's 66-kilogram division bout. Khelif's victory in this matchup secured her place in the gold medal match scheduled for Friday. Just like Lin, Khelif has faced her fair share of unfounded allegations regarding her gender eligibility, but her remarkable skill and dedication have silenced the doubters.

The controversy surrounding Lin and Khelif initially arose from the decision of the International Boxing Association (IBA) to disqualify them at the Women's World Boxing Championships in New Delhi last year. This decision was based on allegations made by the association's president, Umar Kremlev, suggesting that the two boxers had failed a gender test indicating male chromosomes. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has vehemently defended Lin and Khelif's eligibility, citing the genders listed on their passports as proof.

Despite the IOC's support and severance of ties with the IBA due to financial and ethical concerns, online commentary and speculation surrounding the boxers have persisted. IOC President Thomas Bach has condemned this "hate speech" and reiterated that both Lin and Khelif were born and raised as women, competing in women's events for many years.

Outside the ring, both boxers have expressed their gratitude for the support they have received. Lin, who took up boxing as a means to protect her mother from domestic violence, thanked her fans for their unwavering support. Khelif's father also defended his daughter's gender identity, highlighting that he had raised her as a girl and urging the public to refrain from bullying athletes.

The controversy surrounding Lin and Khelif has raised questions about the legitimacy of the IBA, with the IOC suspending and eventually ceasing recognition of the association last year due to allegations of financial and ethical corruption. Other boxing governing bodies, such as USA Boxing, have also severed ties with the IBA, citing ongoing failures of leadership.

As the Paris Olympics continue, the focus undoubtedly remains on the remarkable athletic achievements of Lin Yu-ting and Imane Khelif. Despite the false accusations and intense scrutiny they face, both boxers have remained resilient, proving their worth in the boxing ring. They are an inspiration to athletes around the world and a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.