Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has refuted allegations that she is a transgender athlete, stating that she has always been a woman and has not undergone any medical interventions.
In a statement reported by foxnews.com, Khelif described the accusations as unfounded and urged people not to give them credence.
“I am a woman,” Khelif said when asked about the allegations, as quoted by foxnews.com.
Khelif’s bout with Italian boxer Angela Carini was cut short due to allegations related to transgender issues, igniting significant backlash on social media.
Amid the controversy, Khelif secured a unanimous decision victory in her 66-kilogram match against Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori.
Khelif has previously encountered gender eligibility controversies, including a disqualification from the 2023 Women’s World Championships by the International Boxing Association.
Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee, defended both Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-Ting, denouncing the online hate speech and abuse they faced.
“What is going on in this context on social media with all this hate speech, with this aggression and abuse, and fueled by this agenda, is totally unacceptable”.