7-8-2024 (PARIS) Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who found herself at the centre of a gender dispute controversy, has silenced her critics with a stunning performance at the Paris Olympics. On Tuesday, 6 August, Khelif secured her place in the welterweight tournament final, demonstrating her unwavering focus and athletic prowess.
In a match that captivated spectators at the repurposed Court Philippe Chatrier, Khelif delivered a masterclass in boxing against Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng. The bout, witnessed by a passionate crowd of Algerian supporters, ended with Khelif’s hand raised in victory, triggering an eruption of jubilant cheers from the stands.
Speaking to reporters after her triumph, Khelif remained steadfast in her determination to move past the recent controversy. “I don’t want to talk about the controversy,” she stated, redirecting attention to her performance and the support she’s received. “Everyone, the crowd was full of fans and all Algerians and the Arab world must be proud. I hope I can also make them proud in my final match.”
The controversy in question stems from Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting’s disqualification from the 2023 World Championships in New Delhi. The International Boxing Association (IBA) cited results from a sex chromosome test as the basis for their ineligibility, a decision that sparked widespread debate and criticism.
However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which took control of organising boxing for the Paris Games after stripping the IBA of its governing body status, has firmly rejected the IBA’s test results. The IOC maintains that such tests are arbitrary and illegitimate, adhering instead to the eligibility rules applied in the 2016 and 2021 Olympics, which do not include gender testing.
Khelif’s focus remained squarely on her sport as she reflected on her performance. “All that matters is for me to be at my best level. I know I’m a great athlete, I just hope people enjoyed watching my match,” she said, embodying the spirit of athletic excellence that the Olympics represent.
The outpouring of support for Khelif was palpable both in the arena and beyond. Imane Touti, a 25-year-old marketing professional who attended the match, expressed her elation: “I am so happy for her – I bought my tickets at 2am yesterday to come support her, I came alone and now I’m going to look for tickets for the finals. She has won no matter what. We are behind her whether she wins or loses (the final).”
The significance of Khelif’s achievement resonated at the highest levels of Algerian leadership, with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune taking to social media to congratulate her. “Thank you, Imane, for making all Algerians happy, with this strong and wonderful qualification for the final,” he wrote. “The most important thing has been achieved, and God willing will be crowned with Gold. All Algerians are with you.”
