Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who secured gold in women’s boxing at the Paris 2024 Olympics, has decided to pursue legal action following the leak of a medical report that casts doubt on her gender.
The report, disclosed by French journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia, claims that Khelif is biologically male and cites a condition called 5-alpha reductase insufficiency.
The document, which originated from Kremlin-Bicetre Hospital in Paris and Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Hospital in Algiers, was drafted back in June 2023 and details Khelif’s internal testicles, lack of a uterus, and the presence of a micropenis.
The report further claims that Khelif has XY chromosomes, a male genetic marker.
This leaked medical information, which has sparked a new wave of controversy, isn’t entirely new. However, its publication has reignited an ongoing gender debate that Khelif has previously faced.
During the Paris Olympics, she was subjected to online abuse and harassment, particularly after her quick victory over Italy’s Angela Carini.
Following the harassment, which included public comments from high-profile figures such as J.K. Rowling, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) expressed support for Khelif, affirming her right to compete in the women’s category.
Now, Khelif is taking legal action against the individuals responsible for the leak and those who have commented negatively on her gender.
The IOC has refrained from further comment on the issue as legal proceedings continue.