Australian boxer Tina Rahimi has spoken openly about the criticism she faces regarding her choice to wear a hijab while competing. Ahead of her professional boxing debut on July 19, 2026, Rahimi told ABC Sport that she often encounters negative comments about her dress, including remarks like "You don't belong here" and questions about "Why is there a towel on her head?"

Rahimi said, "People always have something to say about the way I dress," but added she has learned to block out such noise over the years. She emphasized, "Why do you care how I choose to dress? I'm not forcing anything on anyone." She also stated, "Women have the right to choose how they want to dress. With or without hijab."

Rahimi, who was eliminated in the opening round at the Paris 2024 Olympics, described stepping out for that fight as the most confident moment of her career despite the challenges she faced. She has been a vocal opponent of France’s hijab ban for the Paris Games.

The Islamophobia Register of Australia reported 366 cases of online abuse between January 2023 and November 2024, highlighting the broader context of discrimination Rahimi and others face.

Before boxing, Rahimi worked as a makeup artist. She acknowledges feeling different in Australia due to the criticism but remains determined as she embarks on her professional career.

Sources

ABC Australia News