Childhood Photos of Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif Emerge Amidst Olympics Gender Role Controversy
The gender of Algeria’s Imane Khelif has been a topic of conversation following an incident at the Olympic Games. A single powerful punch from Khelif led her Italian opponent, Angela Carini, to withdraw, claiming she had “never been hit so hard” in her life. This sparked outrage among Carini’s supporters, who accused Khelif of being “biologically male.”
The controversy was further fueled by Khelif’s disqualification from last year’s women’s World Championships. The International Boxing Association (IBA) stated that Khelif and another boxer, Lin Yu-ting, did not meet the “required eligibility criteria” for the female category and were found to have XY chromosomes.
The International Olympic Committee criticized the IBA’s decision as “arbitrary” and lacking “due process,” suggesting that no scientific tests were conducted.
However, childhood photos of Khelif from conservative Algeria show her growing up as a girl. Supporters argue that despite having elevated testosterone levels, she has always been female and should not be penalized for it.
Khelif, who does not identify as transgender or intersex, has not directly commented on the qualification controversy but has hinted at the challenges she has faced. Reflecting on her experience, she told Canal Algérie, “It was a tough blow for me, but I came back stronger to show my strength and determination.”
Growing up in rural Tiaret, Algeria, Khelif faced significant obstacles to pursue boxing. Initially a talented footballer, she turned to boxing to defend herself from local boys and overcame financial and cultural barriers by selling bread, scrap metal, and other items to support her training.
She shared, “I never imagined becoming a world champion. My teacher saw my potential in boxing, and my trainer Mohamed Chaouel’s encouragement was crucial.”
Khelif is set to continue her Olympic campaign in Paris on Saturday, August 3, with a fight that could secure her a bronze medal.