Leaked Medical Report Confirms Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif is Biologically Male
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif’s victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics has been marred by controversy after a leaked medical report revealed that she is biologically male. The report, obtained by French journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia, confirms that Khelif has internal testicles, XY chromosomes, and a micropenis, indicating a condition known as 5-alpha reductase insufficiency.
Khelif’s eligibility for the women’s 66kg category was questioned throughout the Olympics, with many accusing her of being a biological man. Despite these concerns, she went on to secure a gold medal, sparking outrage among some athletes and commentators.
The leaked medical report has reignited the debate over transgender athletes in sports. Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh took to social media to demand that the gold medal be revoked, while US presidential candidate Donald Trump used Khelif’s case to criticize the Biden-Harris administration’s gender-ad sports policy.
In 2023, the International Boxing Association (IBA) banned Khelif from participating in the World Championship Gold Medal fight in New Delhi due to concerns about her eligibility. The controversy has also raised questions about the fairness of allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports, with some arguing that it gives them an unfair advantage.
The leaked medical report has further fueled these concerns, as it provides concrete evidence of Khelif’s biological sex. The report has also raised questions about the accuracy of the gender verification tests used by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The IOC has stated that it will investigate the matter and take appropriate action if necessary. However, the controversy is likely to continue, as it highlights the complex and sensitive issue of transgender athletes in sports.