Algerian boxing star Imane Khelif breaks her silence on the ongoing gender identity controversy, defending her stance and addressing public concerns.
After winning a gold medal in the women’s 66-kilogram category at the Paris Games, Algerian Olympic champion boxer Imane Khelif has finally addressed the intense scrutiny and misinformation she experienced. In her initial interview on this matter, Khelif discussed how unfounded assertions surrounding her gender had caused significant emotional upheaval for her.
The dispute arose when Angela Carini, Khelif’s Italian rival, withdrew from their match within seconds. This triggered unfounded speculations and false accusations about Khelif being transgender or a male. Despite the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stepping in to back her up and denounce any misleading claims circulating around her identity, things escalated quickly with notable personalities such as Elon Musk, J.K. Rowling and Donald Trump expressing disapproving comments on social media platforms.
During her interview with Algerian news channel El Bilad, Khelif expressed that she was deeply affected and hurt by the situation. The amount of fear she experienced is indescribable to others. She also added that the scenario was terrifying but thankfully people from Algeria and across Arab nations know her for her femininity, courage, and willpower.
Khelif conveyed her disappointment regarding the amalgamation of politics and sports, clarifying that she doesn’t approve of their union. Nevertheless, Khelif frowned upon individuals who attempted to politicize sports by claiming she was transgender. To her, this denigration dishonored not only her family but also Algeria’s reputation as well as women in Algerian society and the Arab world at large. She further added that being a follower of Islam is an undeniable aspect about herself known globally.
Khelif was particularly pained by the condemnations made about her identity and cultural/religious values through public remarks of notable personalities such as Trump, Rowling, and Musk.
Nabil Boudi, Khelif’s attorney, has taken action against the harassment by submitting a legal complaint to the Paris prosecutor’s office. Consequently, an investigation into the online hate campaign aimed at Khelif was commenced under consideration of charges such as “gender-based cyber harassment,” “public insults based on gender and origin,” and “public incitement to discrimination.”
Despite facing adverse circumstances, Khelif has demonstrated impressive resilience. However, she continues to stand firm in her pursuit of justice and respect. “If someone apologizes to me,” she stated, “I will accept their apology.” Nevertheless, for those who refuse to apologize, Khelif sends a clear message: “As a woman,I will always be one,and my dignity takes precedence over everything else.”
