Olympic boxer Imane Khelif expressed her distress over the backlash she faced due to misconceptions about her gender, stating that it “harms human dignity.” She called for an end to bullying athletes, emphasizing the detrimental effects it can have on individuals. Khelif made these remarks in an interview with SNTV, a sports video partner of The Associated Press.
Speaking in Arabic, the Algerian athlete urged people worldwide to uphold the Olympic principles and Charter, and to refrain from bullying athletes as it can have significant consequences, such as dividing people and destroying their spirit. She emphasized the importance of supporting athletes rather than subjecting them to scrutiny.
Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting have faced online abuse based on false claims about their gender, sparking a debate on gender identity and sports regulations. Despite the challenges, Khelif remains focused on her Olympic journey and is determined to win a gold medal for Algeria.
In the midst of the controversy surrounding her eligibility for the Olympics, Khelif appreciated the support she received from the International Olympic Committee and President Thomas Bach. She acknowledged the challenges she has faced while competing away from home but remains committed to her goal of achieving success in women’s boxing.
Khelif highlighted the importance of staying focused on her performance and not allowing external opinions to affect her. She emphasized her determination to improve as an athlete and compete for a medal despite the ongoing discussions about her.
While recognizing the global attention on her, Khelif mentioned that she avoids social media to maintain her mental focus during the Olympics. She remains steadfast in her pursuit of success and is grateful for the support she has received from fans and her country.
Khelif’s resilience and determination have been evident throughout her Olympic journey, and she remains undeterred by the challenges she has faced. Despite the scrutiny and criticism, she is focused on her upcoming bouts and is determined to make Algeria proud.
Her journey in boxing began in rural Algeria, where she overcame obstacles to pursue her passion for the sport. With a strong support system and unwavering determination, Khelif has risen to the top levels of international boxing and aims to achieve her dream of winning an Olympic gold medal.
As she prepares for her next fight in Paris, Khelif remains focused on her goals and is determined to showcase her talent on the world stage. She hopes to inspire others with her resilience and dedication to her sport.
