Algerian boxer Imane Khelif recently expressed her willingness to comply with genetic testing requirements set forth by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for her participation in competitions. This statement comes in light of ongoing debates surrounding her eligibility in women’s boxing.
Khelif earned a gold medal in the women’s welterweight division at the 2024 Paris Games, amid a contentious gender eligibility issue. Previously, she was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships by the International Boxing Association (IBA) following the results of sex chromosome tests.
As of last May, World Boxing, which will supervise boxing events at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, has mandated sex testing for all participants. Khelif has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding this ruling, stating she would agree to genetic sex testing only if conducted by the IOC.
In a conversation with CNN, Khelif affirmed her commitment to comply with necessary requirements for competition while emphasizing the need to balance protections for women in sports. She stated, “Of course, I would accept doing anything I’m required to do to participate in competitions.”
The boxer underscored the importance of ensuring that the rights of all athletes are upheld, saying, “They should protect women, but they need to pay attention that while protecting women, they shouldn’t hurt other women.”
At 26 years old, Khelif remains determined to seek justice in her case, asserting her identity firmly: “I’m not transgender. I’m a woman. I want to live my life. Please do not exploit me in your political agendas.” Her resolve is reinforced by her belief that justice is ultimately on her side, stating, “I will not surrender until I have justice because I know justice is on my side above all else.”