The kiss, in the presence of Italy's far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has gone viral, causing a new controversy in Italy and on social media. The Italian government had already shown its "great concern" about the women's boxing competition of "two transsexuals, men who identify as women”. Meloni has also made statements in regards to her opinions on gender and sexuality just a month ago.

"Yes to the natural family, no to the LGBT lobby. Yes to sexual identity, no to gender ideology,”"Meloni said. Despite her sentiments, Meloni couldn’t be happier for Italy’s golden moment and congratulated and hugged Bellandi after her win.

"Her determination was extraordinary," said Meloni about the judoka. Bellandi said that the historic kiss after beating Israel's Inbar Lanir by ippon was an expression of love. 

"This is a gold filled with love. I'm sorry that this kiss is seen as something extraordinary, it's love. Who would you kiss after such important results? Everything is moved by love. Sport is love, friendship is love, couples are love," Bellandi told RaiSport.

The tearful Bellandi also dedicated the win to her country and those who stood by her in her Olympic journey. "I dedicate it to my Italy, after the competitions these days have not gone as we expected," she said.

"We are a great team. It is also for all of them. I also dedicate it to my family, my partner, coach Antonio Ciano, the Fiamme Gialle sports group and the Italian national team. 

"Thank you all for supporting me. Thanks also to those who are not here, but have contributed to give me something."