Algerian Imane Khelif wins gold medal in boxing despite unwarranted gender questioning

Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, won the welterweight gold medal at Roland-Garros Stadium, overcoming opponents who questioned her gender. She won in a unanimous decision, cheered on by a large Algerian crowd. Khelif expressed her happiness and thanked her fans and supporters. Her victory was celebrated in Algeria, with the President praising her achievement. Khelif had prepared for this victory for eight years and dedicated her gold medal to all the Arab world. She and another boxer, Lin Yu-Ting, had faced allegations of gender issues from the International Boxing Association, but both were declared eligible by the IOC and USA Boxing. The IBA’s testing results were not disclosed, and questions continue to be raised about the boxers’ genders. The IBA’s financial ties with Russia have led to controversy, with accusations of bias and political agendas. Khelif and Lin have been recognized as veteran fighters in the women’s boxing community. The issue reached the United Nations, where Russian and Algerian diplomats clashed over the matter. Khelif’s father has defended her gender identity, while Lin has spoken about using boxing as a way to protect her mother. Despite the controversy, Khelif’s victory is seen as a significant achievement and recognition of her dedication to the sport.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com