Imane Khelif’s father presented her birth certificate to address the gender controversy in the Olympic debate.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has captured global attention, as her gender has come under intense scrutiny.
After being banned from a gold medal match in Delhi by the International Boxing Association, Khelif’s case has sparked debate.
The ban was due to a failed gender eligibility test.
This situation has raised discussions on fairness, discrimination, and the rights of athletes.
Imane Khelif faced criticism after failing gender test
Imane Khelif, a 25-year-old athlete who has competed in the women’s division throughout her career.
However, she faced backlash after her eligibility to compete as a female boxer was questioned.
The situation escalated during her match with Italian athlete Angela Carini, who left the ring after just 46 seconds with a suspected broken nose.
Despite the controversy, Khelif has been cleared to compete in the 2024 Olympics.
Imane Khelif received support from the Olympic community
In response to the criticism, the Algerian Olympic Committee issued a statement defending Khelif.
Additionally, they condemned the online abuse she faced.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) also released a statement the importance of non-discrimination in sports.
They said: “The IOC is committed to protecting the human rights of all athletes participating in the Olympic Games in accordance with the Olympic Charter, the IOC Code of Ethics, and the IOC Strategic Framework on Human Rights.
Additionally, Imane Khelif’s father defended his daughter amid the gender controversy.
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.”
He urged his daughter to prove her critics wrong and to bring honor to Algeria and the Arab world. “I hope she will honor Algeria and Tiaret and win the gold medal. She is our role model,” he added.
Additionally, Imane Khelif’s father also presented her birth certificate as proof of her female identity.
He also presented Khelif’s birth certificate and explained: “She is a woman, we have all the evidence, including her birth certificate.”
Amar Khelife produced an official document from May 2, 1999, confirming that his daughter was born female. The purpose of this document was to confirm her gender and address the controversy about her participation.
Imane Khelif also declared, ‘I am a woman’ following gender eligibility controversy
In a recent interview with reporters in Paris, Imane Khelif discussed the contentious 46-second bout against Angela Carini.
Following the match, the Algerian athlete, wrapped in her national flag, spoke to the international media with visible emotion. During her address, Imane Khelif briefly touched on the controversy surrounding her involvement in the Olympic Games.
“I dedicate this medal to the world, and to all the Arabs and I tell you, ‘Long live Algeria!’” ” she told reporters after the fight.
“I want to tell the entire world that I am a female, and I will remain a female,” the boxer added.
She expressed concern for her family, who have been deeply affected by the situation.
Additionally, she vowed to continue her pursuit of a gold medal as a way to respond to her critics.
She now has the opportunity to win gold if she defeats Yang Liu from China.
After securing her place in the Women’s 66 kg welterweight final, Khelif has guaranteed herself at least a silver medal.
Khelif’s performance in the final will determine whether she can claim the top prize.