‘I’m Just Like Any Other Woman’: Imane Khelif Wins Historic Boxing Gold Amid Gender Controversy

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif made history by clinching a gold medal in the women’s welterweight division at the Paris Olympics, overcoming a contentious gender eligibility debate. The 24-year-old secured her victory with a decisive 5:0 win against Yang Liu of China.

In her comments to the Associated Press, Khelif expressed her deep satisfaction, saying, “For eight years, this has been my dream. Now, I’m the Olympic champion and gold medalist. I want to thank all the Algerian people here in Paris, around the world, and in Algeria. I’m very grateful to my team and coach. Algeria is very happy today.”

Khelif’s path to the podium was marred by a gender controversy that initially led to her disqualification by the International Boxing Association (IBA) in 2023 due to a failed gender eligibility test. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) dismissed these claims as unfounded, allowing her to compete.

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Addressing the controversy, Khelif firmly asserted her identity, stating, “I’m a woman like any other woman. I was born a woman, I live as a woman, and I am fully qualified to participate in this competition.” She added that despite the criticisms and challenges, her focus remained on her athletic performance and not on the detractors.

The dispute also involved Taiwanese boxer Li Yu-ting, with both athletes facing scrutiny over gender eligibility. The IBA’s initial disqualification of both was later overturned after the IBA faced a ban from the Olympics over governance issues.

Reflecting on her achievement, Khelif told the BBC, “Winning this medal was my dream. After eight years of hard work, fatigue, and sleepless nights, this is fantastic. I’m incredibly happy to be an Olympic gold medallist.”

Khelif’s victory stands as a testament to her perseverance and determination, despite the controversies that surrounded her journey.