Imane Khalif: The Algerian Boxer Stirring Up ‘Gender Controversy’ at Paris Olympics

A fresh controversy has emerged at the Paris Olympics Games 2024 regarding boxer Imane Khalif’s inclusion in the quadrennial event as a female boxer, despite having male chromosomes. The issue began when Imane faced off against Italian boxer Angela Carini, who opted to withdraw from the bout after just 46 seconds, citing the need to ‘protect her life’. This is not the inaugural instance where Imane has found herself embroiled in such a dispute, as she was previously barred from participating in the 2023 championships due to gender eligibility concerns.

This is not Khalif’s premiere appearance at the Olympic Games, but a lot has transformed since the Tokyo Olympics.

Who Is Imane Khalif?

The 25-year-old Imane Khalif, a native of Tiaret, Algeria, currently serves as the UNICEF ambassador. Despite her father’s disapproval of boxing for females, Khalif aspired to motivate future generations by clinching a gold medal on the grandest stage.

Khalif launched her professional boxing career in the 2018 World Championships, securing the 17th position. In the subsequent edition of the event in 2019, she finished 19th. Khalif then participated in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where she was defeated by Ireland’s Kellie Harrington in the quarter-finals. Following this, Khalif attained the second spot in the Women’s World Boxing Championships after a loss to Amy Broadhurst. She went on to achieve gold medals in the 2022 African Championships, Mediterranean Games, and 2023 Arab Games in the subsequent years.

The 2023 World Boxing Championships Controversy:

The controversy surrounding Imane Khelif initially arose during the 2023 World Boxing Championships.

Conducted in New Delhi, the 2023 World Boxing Championships witnessed Khelif being prohibited from competing in the event by IBA President Umar Kremlev. Kremlev stated, “Based on genetic testing, we identified several athletes who attempted to deceive their peers by masquerading as females. The tests revealed that they possess XY chromosomes. Such athletes were disqualified from the competition.”

The Algerian Olympic Committee interpreted Khelif’s disqualification as being due to “medical reasons.” Conversely, Algerian media claimed that Khelif was ousted due to elevated testosterone levels, as per Reuters.

Khelif expressed discontent with the situation, declaring, “There are certain nations that did not desire Algeria to secure a gold medal. This is a conspiracy of significant proportions, and we will not remain silent about it.”

IOC On Imane Khelif’s Paris Olympics Qualification:

Mark Adams, the spokesperson for the International Olympic Committee, affirmed that since Khelif’s passport designates her as ‘female,’ she is taking part in the women’s division in the 66kg category.

“All participants in the women’s division are adhering to the eligibility regulations,” he articulated. “Their passports classify them as female, and this fact has been authenticated.”

Several present and former female boxing champions such as Claressa Shields and Ebanie Bridges have openly criticized the IOC’s decision. Meanwhile, the COA, which represents the Algerian Olympic Committee, has expressed support for Imane Khelif and condemned the accusations against her.