Khelif has been one of the Olympics’ most controversial athletes. She has advanced to the semi-finals in the women’s 66-kilogram class, which means that she has already secured a medal, no matter how it goes. In boxing, the losing semi-finalists get to share a bronze medal.
But her Olympic participation has been about something completely different.
Approved by the IOC
At the WC last year, a gender test was carried out (which was questioned by the IOC, which called it illegitimate) which was failed and according to the International Boxing Federation she showed X and Y chromosomes, which according to the genetic makeup usually apply to men. Women usually have two X chromosomes.
However, the organization IBA, which is no longer recognized by the IOC as the governing body of boxing, has changed its justification for washing the boxers several times.
The International Olympic Committee has approved her on the grounds that she is a woman in the passport. She has competed against women for several years, including at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo.
During the Olympics, there have been strong reactions to her participation in Paris.
– I am sending a message to all people in the world to uphold the Olympic principles and the Olympic rules – stop bullying athletes. It has effects, big effects, says Khelif.
“Can destroy people”
The 25-year-old continues:
– It can destroy people, it can kill people’s thoughts, soul and mind. It can divide people. Therefore, I am asking you to stop being bullied.