‘I am a woman’ – Imane Khelif triumphs after days of abuse over ‘gender controversy’

Algerian welterweight boxer Imane Khelif triumphed over Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori by unanimous decision in the quarter-finals at the North Paris Arena on Friday night.

This victory came after enduring intense online abuse and baseless accusations that the 25-year-old fighter is secretly a man. Despite the controversy, Khelif remains steadfast, asserting her identity as a woman alongside Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-Ting.

The match lasted just 46 seconds, but the repercussions have been ongoing. Khelif faced a barrage of online attacks following her first Paris Olympics bout on Thursday, which ended abruptly in the first round as her opponent, Italy’s Angela Carini, withdrew after a series of powerful blows.

Carini, visibly emotional post-fight, stated she had never experienced such force in her career, fueling unfounded claims that Khelif is a man.

This controversy is not new. Both Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting were disqualified from last year’s boxing world championships by the International Boxing Association (IBA) for failing an unspecified test that rendered them ineligible to compete in the women’s category.

However, the IBA clarified that the tests were not related to testosterone levels, maintaining privacy on the exact nature of the tests. Khelif, who competed in the Tokyo Olympics, has consistently identified as a woman, supported by her family and documentation.

IBA President Umar Kremlev previously claimed a DNA test indicated the athletes had both X and Y chromosomes, a statement that has fueled ongoing speculation. The IBA has been banned from the Olympics since 2019 due to allegations of financial mismanagement.

Amidst these claims, International Olympics Committee (IOC) chief Thomas Bach suggested the accusations were part of a broader campaign to undermine the Games, emphasizing that both athletes have always identified as women.

High-profile figures, including former US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, have publicly accused Khelif of being a man, igniting further controversy. Social media has been rife with images and comments accusing the IOC of permitting male violence against women, exacerbated by Hamori sharing a controversial image on Instagram before deleting it.

Despite the negativity, Khelif’s supporters filled the North Paris Arena to cheer her on. Rahmouna, a former English teacher, traveled from Lille to support Khelif, highlighting the importance of standing against the online harassment.

She stressed that Khelif is a woman, confirmed by the IOC and her family, and condemned the unjust treatment she has faced.

The fight itself saw Khelif dominate the first two rounds with precise jabs, while the third round turned into a series of grapples. Ultimately, the judges unanimously declared Khelif the winner, ensuring she leaves Paris with a medal.

Overwhelmed by emotion, Khelif celebrated in the ring before retreating to her coach’s arms, visibly upset but resolute.

In the press room, Khelif briefly addressed the media, asserting that her victory was a battle for her dignity. Hamori remained to speak, expressing pride in her performance and gratitude for the opportunity, despite the persistent questioning about the fairness of the fight.

Outside the arena, Khelif’s supporters continued their celebrations, buoyed by her triumph. Rahmouna expressed her elation, emphasizing that Khelif’s victory was a testament to her athletic spirit and human values.

Imane Khelif’s journey in Paris is a powerful reminder of resilience and determination in the face of adversity, showcasing the true spirit of sportsmanship.