Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif Takes Legal Action Over Leaked Medical Records
Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who made history by winning Olympic gold despite a controversy over her gender eligibility, is now taking legal action against media outlets that have published leaked medical records. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed Khelif’s legal actions on Wednesday, stating that she has filed a complaint in France for online harassment and is preparing a lawsuit in response to the latest reporting.
The gender controversy surrounding Khelif erupted during the Paris Games in August when she defeated Angela Carini in just 46 seconds in her opening bout. Carini, visibly distressed, abandoned the fight after suffering a severe nose injury. The incident sparked a heated debate, with politicians and celebrities, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and “Harry Potter” author JK Rowling, weighing in on the matter.
According to reports published in France this week, Khelif has XY, or male, chromosomes. However, the IOC emphasized that Khelif has competed in the women’s category in international competitions for many years, including at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and at the International Boxing Association (IBA) world championships and IBA-sanctioned tournaments.
The IOC expressed its concern over the abuse that Khelif has been subjected to, stating that it “will not comment while legal action is ongoing, or on media reports about unverified documents whose origin cannot be confirmed.”
Khelif, who was hailed as a hero upon her return to Algeria after her Olympic triumph, has previously faced online harassment. She has now taken legal action to protect her privacy and reputation.
The ongoing legal proceedings highlight the complex and sensitive nature of gender eligibility in sports. The IOC has established guidelines for determining an athlete’s eligibility based on their sex, but these guidelines have been challenged in recent years as the understanding of gender identity and biology has evolved.
