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 in Montana. 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." In the wake of Trump's remarks, Khelif has initiated a lawsuit against several high-profile figures, including Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling, for cyberbullying related to their comments about her gender. Her attorney, Nabil Boudi, confirmed that the lawsuit has been filed with French authorities, targeting what they describe as a "misogynist, racist and sexist campaign" against Khelif. The lawsuit could lead to significant penalties for those found guilty of online hate speech. Khelif's victory in the women's 66kg boxing category has been celebrated in Algeria, where she was honored at the closing ceremony of the Olympics. However, her participation has sparked controversy, with critics questioning her eligibility based on gender tests conducted by the now-banned International Boxing Association. The International Olympic Committee has defended her participation, stating that eligibility is determined by passport details. As Khelif returns to Algeria, she is expected to meet with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who has pledged to support her against the online harassment she has faced.