PARIS (August 9) — Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who clinched gold in the 66kg division at the Paris Olympics, has confronted the gender controversy surrounding her with a clear declaration of her identity. Following her victory over China’s Liu Yang, Khelif, who faced significant scrutiny regarding her eligibility, asserted her place in the sport.
Khelif’s win on Thursday was marred by earlier controversy; she had been disqualified from the 2023 World Championships due to claims that she had XY chromosomes, a factor that raised questions about her eligibility. Despite these challenges, Khelif met all IOC standards to compete in her second Olympics, having previously finished fifth in Tokyo 2021.
In a statement addressing her critics, Khelif emphasized her identity: “I am a woman like any other woman. I was born a woman, I’ve lived as a woman, and I’ve competed as a woman. There is no doubt about that.” She dismissed detractors as “enemies of my success,” attributing her victory in part to the adversity she faced.
The controversy intensified when Khelif’s opening-round opponent withdrew, citing Khelif’s strength as a reason. This led to widespread speculation and political rhetoric suggesting Khelif might be a transgender athlete, which the IOC has firmly refuted. IOC spokesman Mark Adams clarified that Khelif, along with other athletes in similar situations, meets the criteria for female competition. IOC President Thomas Bach also confirmed that Khelif was born and raised as a woman.
Khelif, who hails from Biban Mesbah in Algeria, received widespread support from her home country, where she is celebrated as a role model for women. Her victory and subsequent celebration at Roland-Garros, the venue for the boxing medal rounds, drew enthusiastic support from Algerian fans, who cheered her triumph.
Despite the controversy, Khelif remains focused on her achievements and the support she has received from the boxing community. Liu Yang and her team were noted for their sportsmanship, offering congratulations post-fight.
The International Boxing Association (IBA), which had disqualified Khelif in 2023, has been a focal point of criticism. The IOC stripped the IBA of overseeing Olympic boxing due to issues of corruption and bias. Khelif has expressed confusion over the IBA’s actions and the impact they’ve had on her career.
Khelif’s message to her critics and the broader sporting world is one of resilience and a call against bullying. “They should avoid bullying,” she said. Her success stands as a testament to her strength and determination, despite the ongoing debate over her eligibility and identity.
