Algerian boxer Imane Khelif is on a historic quest to become her country’s first female Olympic boxing gold medalist. The 25-year-old secured at least a bronze medal—Algeria’s first boxing medal since 2000—by defeating Hungary’s Luca Anna Hamori in a welterweight quarter-final bout on Saturday.
Imane Khelif’s journey to the Paris Olympics has been clouded by controversy. In 2023, she and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting were disqualified from the World Championships in New Delhi due to the International Boxing Association’s (IBA) eligibility rules, which prohibit athletes with XY chromosomes from participating in women’s events.
However, the IBA did not provide specific reasons for their disqualification, nor did it confirm if they have a genetic condition known as Differences of Sexual Development (DSD).
Despite the challenges, Imane Khelif remains determined and optimistic. “There is no easy path to the Olympics, and I am preparing to give my best in the upcoming fight,” she said in an interview with Algerian state television. “I’m very proud to represent my country and this sport. I hope to inspire future generations by winning Algeria’s first Olympic gold in women’s boxing.”
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach affirmed Khelif and Lin’s right to compete, stating there was “never any doubt” about their eligibility as women athletes. This endorsement comes as a significant boost for Khelif, who dedicated her medal to Moustafa Mousa, the first Algerian to win an Olympic medal, following his passing on Saturday.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune lauded Khelif’s achievement, expressing support in a post on X: “You have made Algeria, Algerian women, and Algerian boxing proud. We will stand by you no matter what happens. Best of luck in the upcoming rounds.” Additionally, Algerian Sports Minister Abderrahmane Hammad praised Imane Khelif as “one of a kind.”
Imane Khelif’s next challenge will be against Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng, who she previously defeated at the 2023 World Championships before her disqualification. Suwannapheng, who ousted defending champion Busenaz Surmeneli of Turkey in her quarter-final match, acknowledged Khelif’s strength.
“I know she’s a formidable opponent. I’ll study her tactics carefully and refine my strategy,” said the Asian Games silver medallist. When asked about Khelif’s eligibility for the Olympics, Suwannapheng diplomatically responded, “I don’t know, but I’m not afraid to compete at this level. I will give it my all.”
As Khelif prepares for the semi-finals, the spotlight remains on her remarkable journey and the broader conversation around athlete eligibility in women’s sports. Her story is not just about a quest for gold; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, representation, and the pursuit of equality in the sporting world.
