In the world of sports, the debate over Imane Khelif’s gender has reached a fever pitch. The Algerian boxer, currently competing in the Paris Olympics, has come under scrutiny following her disqualification in the past for elevated testosterone levels. The 25-year-old athlete has now found herself at the center of a heated controversy, prompting the Algerian Olympic Committee to issue a statement defending her.
Khelif’s situation gained widespread attention after Italian boxer Angela Carini withdrew from their bout in the round of 16, just 46 seconds into the match. Carini cited ongoing controversies over Khelif’s gender eligibility, referencing issues from last year’s IBA World Championships. Despite this, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has allowed Khelif to compete in the games. Carini left the ring in tears, claiming she had never been hit so hard in her career.
According to press reports, Imane Khelif has a rare developmental disorder known as Swyer syndrome. This condition results in an XY male karyotype but a female phenotype, meaning Khelif has female reproductive organs but lacks ovaries and menstruation. Her considerable strength has been noted by multiple opponents.
In response to the growing controversy, the Algerian Olympic Committee released a definitive statement late Friday night. The committee announced they had filed an official complaint with the IOC, alleging a “serious violation of sports ethics and the Olympic Charter” by another participant in the Paris games, presumably Carini. The statement also declared their intent to pursue legal action against those involved in what they described as a vile campaign against Khelif.
“We reserve the right to prosecute all those involved in the heinous campaign against Imane Khelif. We wish our heroine success. Long live Algeria,” the statement concluded.