Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has initiated legal action against Elon Musk, CEO of X (formerly Twitter), and author J.K. Rowling, accusing them of “acts of aggravated cyber harassment.”
Khelif’s lawyer, Nabil Boudi, filed the complaint with French authorities, requesting an investigation into all responsible parties.
The lawsuit aims to address online hate speech and safeguard Khelif’s reputation, particularly in response to false transgender allegations made on social media that were intended to tarnish her public image.
“What we’re asking is that the prosecution investigates not only these people but whoever it feels necessary. If the case goes to court, they will stand trial, could target personalities overseas.
“The prosecutor’s office combating online hate speech has the possibility to make requests for mutual legal assistance with other countries,” Boudi told Variety, as shared by American influencer Collin Rugg on X on August 14, 2024.
Khelif, addressing the media about the transgender accusations, stated, “I have made statements to the media saying that I fully qualify to take part in this competition.
I am a woman like any other woman. I was born a woman and lived as such and I compete as a woman. There are enemies of success, that is what I call them. It just gives my gold medal an extra special taste because of their attacks.”
Khelif won gold in the women’s boxing division at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
She went viral after her dominant performance despite failing a gender test the previous year.