Algerian boxer addresses critics

Algerian female boxer Iman Khelif, who is competing at the Paris Olympics, has called for an end to the flow of negative comments directed at her, Liter.kz reports, citing MATCH.

In 2023, the International Boxing Association (IBA) suspended Khelif during the World Championships in India due to failure to meet the eligibility criteria. A gender test showed that the athlete has XY chromosomes. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed Khelif to compete in women’s boxing at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

“I appeal to all the people of the world to respect the Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes, because it has consequences, huge consequences. It can destroy people, it can kill the spirit and the mind of people. It can divide people. And so I ask them to refrain from bullying. I talk to my family two days a week. I hope they are not too hurt. They are worried about me. God willing, this crisis will end with a gold medal, and that will be the best answer. I know that the IOC has given me credit, and I am happy with this decision, because it reflects the truth. To be honest, I do not follow social media. There is a mental health group that does not allow us to follow social media, especially at the Olympic Games, not me or other athletes. I am here to compete and to achieve a good result,” the Daily Mail quotes Khelif as saying, citing SNTV.

At the Olympic tournament in the weight category up to 66 kg, Khelif won two victories and reached the semi-finals. Thus, the Algerian guaranteed herself at least bronze at the 2024 Olympics.