Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer embroiled in a gender eligibility controversy, has triumphed over adversity to reach the finals of the women’s 66kg boxing competition at the Paris Olympics.
Despite enduring online harassment and allegations of competing in the wrong category, Khelif secured her place in the final on August 9 by winning her semifinal bout against Thai boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng.
Khelif, who had previously been overcome with emotion after her quarter-final win due to the intense pressure, was celebrated by a supportive crowd waving Algerian flags.
In a heartfelt interview with SNTV, Khelif discussed the personal toll the controversy has taken on her and her family. She condemned the online abuse and emphasized her commitment to the Olympic principles and Charter.
Determined to respond to her critics, Khelif has set her sights on winning a gold medal, sending a clear message of resilience.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has defended Khelif’s right to compete, asserting that she was born and raised as a woman, has competed as such previously, and is listed as female on her passport. Bach has suggested that the controversy stems from a “politically motivated cultural war” and has denounced the hate directed at Khelif.
In contrast, the International Boxing Association (IBA), which has been banned from the Olympics due to links with the Kremlin and other issues, has challenged the IOC’s stance. The IBA claims that tests on Khelif showed elevated testosterone levels and XY chromosomes.
Despite the ongoing debate, Khelif remains committed to her Olympic aspirations. She is determined to prove her critics wrong and use her platform to combat bullying and advocate for fairness in sports.
