Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif was welcomed by huge crowds upon her return to her native region of Tiaret, southwest of Algiers.
Imane Khelif returned home after winning the gold medal at the Olympics.
Imane Khelif, Algeria’s celebrated Olympic boxing champion, received a hero’s welcome in her hometown of Tiaret.
Tiaret is located southwest of Algiers.
The 25-year-old athlete returned to a rapturous reception in her hometown.
She had secured the gold medal in the women’s 66kg category at the Paris Olympics.
AFP reporters noted that thousands of enthusiastic locals turned out late Friday to honor Khelif.
She had been at the center of a gender controversy during the Games.
Previously, thousands of Algerians celebrated Imane Khelif’s historic gold medal win
The streets of Algeria came alive with celebration as citizens praised Khelif for her perseverance and historic achievement.
Her journey was marked by significant personal sacrifices, including selling scrap metal to support her boxing training. This dedication resonated deeply with many.
Khelif’s role as a UNICEF ambassador further endeared her to the public, amplifying the admiration for her accomplishments.
Social media buzzed with excitement as videos of the celebrations went viral.
A notable post from @Popbase on X featured footage of the celebrations, captioned: “Thousands of people in Algeria celebrating Imane Khelif’s Gold medal victory at the #Olympics.”
The clip captured the scale of the nationwide jubilation, with many congratulating Khelif in the comments.
Currently, Imane Khelif has left viewers stunned by revealing her new look.
In the midst of her post-victory celebrations, Khelif unveiled a new look that sparked further discussion.
In a recent Instagram video, she showcased her gold medal. She paired it with a vibrant pink floral outfit, matching hoop earrings, and coordinated makeup.
The 25-year-old athlete’s appearance, complete with pink eyeshadow and loose curls, received mixed reactions online.
Khelif’s newlook sparked debate on social
However, some viewers celebrated her style as a reflection of her confidence and personal flair. While others expressed surprise.
One person said: She is beautiful
A second wrote: I can’t believe y’all still think she’s a man. She is beautiful girl.
While a third commented: The people’s princess
Another added: Absolutely beautiful, and ALL support from USA here! Period. And everyone else to include the hating à&& men just jealous they can’t hit as hard.
Someone else said: She is beautiful without all this girlie stuff. Shame to all who made her feel she had to do this.
Despite the widespread celebration, Khelif has faced criticism from high-profile figures including Elon Musk, J.K. Rowling, and former President Donald Trump.
In response to the negative attention, Khelif has filed a lawsuit against Musk and Rowling. She cites the emotional distress caused by their comments.
Previoulsy, Imane Khelif’s father, Omar Khelif, has publicly defended his daughter against the allegations.
Appearing on French live TV, he said: “The attacks against her are immoral, it is not fair. Imane has loved sports since she was six years old. These critics aim to destabilize her and prevent her from becoming the champion she aspires to be.”
Additionally, Khelif herself defended her participation. She said: “I am a woman like any other woman. I was born a woman, have lived as a woman, and competed as a woman—there is no doubt about that.”