Insights

Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who recently won gold at the Paris Olympics, has publicly addressed comments made by former President Donald Trump, who referred to her as a man during a rally. Khelif, who has faced intense scrutiny regarding her gender, expressed her hurt and fear over the backlash, stating, "I cannot describe how scared I was." She emphasized her identity as a woman, asserting, "I was born as a woman, I live as a woman, and I am qualified." The controversy surrounding Khelif's gender has drawn attention from various public figures, including Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling, who have made critical remarks on social media. In response, Khelif's attorney, Nabil Boudi, has filed a lawsuit in France against several individuals, including Musk and Rowling, for cyberbullying and harassment. The lawsuit claims that Khelif has been subjected to a "misogynist, racist and sexist campaign" following her Olympic success. Khelif's achievements in the women's 66kg boxing category have been celebrated in Algeria, where she was honored at the closing ceremony. However, her participation has sparked protests and calls for her disqualification based on gender eligibility tests, which she has contested. The International Olympic Committee has defended her right to compete, stating that eligibility is determined by passport gender. As Khelif returns to Algeria, she is expected to meet with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who has expressed support for her, affirming that those who have violated her dignity will face legal consequences.