Algerian boxer Imane Khelif weathered a toxic storm of transphobic abuse on social media after her Italian opponent quit 46 seconds into their Thursday bout, dragging the Olympic Games into a bitter and misinformation-filled debate over transgender and intersex athletes.
Why it matters: Human biology is complex, and transgender advocates have long warned that transphobia and a constant stream of online misinformation will also harm cisgendered men and women who don't comport to perceived societal norms about identity.
After Simone Biles cemented her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time at the Paris Olympics, she took an apparent dig at former President Trump on Friday.
Why it matters: It's one of the few overtly political moments at the Paris Games but underscores Biles' sense of triumph after she drew flak from Trump's now-running mate JD Vance for leaving the Tokyo Olympics to focus on her mental health.
PARIS — Simone Biles captured the women's all-around gold in Paris on Thursday, besting Brazil's Rebeca Andrade, with American Sunisa Lee capturing Bronze.
Why it matters: The first- and third-place finishes are yet another victory for the decorated athletes, both of whom faced an uncertain path to Paris.
Olympic triathlon athletes swam in Paris' River Seine on Wednesday after officials determined the water to be safe following days of delays stemming from pollution concerns, per a statement from the sport's governing body.
Why it matters: The Seine was polluted for decades and underwent a $1.5 billion cleanup before the Olympics so it could be used for triathlon and marathon events.
