When Khelif defeated Angela Carini in her maiden match at the August Olympics in Paris in 46 seconds, the Italian broke down in tears and left the fight after suffering a severely injured nose, sparking the gender debate. According to reports this week in France, Khelif… Read More
Imane Khelif, a boxer from Algeria (AFP)
The International Olympic Committee announced on Wednesday that Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who won Olympic gold despite a dispute over her gender eligibility, is suing over media stories regarding her medical data.
According to reports this week in France, Khelif, 25, has male chromosomes, or XY.
When Khelif defeated Angela Carini in her maiden match at the August Olympics in Paris in 46 seconds, the Italian broke down in tears and left the fight after suffering a severely injured nose, sparking the gender debate.
Politicians and public figures, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling, commented on the controversy.
In reaction to the most recent reporting, the IOC said in a statement, “We understand that Imane Khelif has taken legal action against individuals who commented on her situation during the Olympic Games Paris 2024, and is also preparing a lawsuit.
“The IOC will not comment on media reports regarding unverified documents whose origin cannot be confirmed or while legal action is ongoing.”
According to the IOC, Khelif had participated in international competition in the women’s division “for many years,” including at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, the International Boxing Association (IBA) world championships, and IBA-approved competitions.
“Saddened by the abuse that Imane Khelif is currently receiving,” the IOC continued.
Khelif, who was greeted like a hero upon her return to Algeria following her Olympic success, has already complained of internet harassment in France.