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Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif, who found herself entangled in a gender controversy during the Paris Games, is now focused on securing her second Olympic gold in Los Angeles. Despite former US President Donald Trump's controversial policies regarding transgender athletes, Khelif remains undeterred. Last month, Trump signed an executive order barring transgender women from competing in female sports categories. Trump had previously claimed that the 25-year-old had transitioned from male to female, an allegation that Khelif has consistently denied. Speaking to ITV News, Khelif addressed the controversy directly:
"I am not transgender. This does not concern me, and it does not intimidate me. That is my response."
Triumph Through Adversity
Reflecting on her journey, Khelif believes that the challenges she has faced have only made her stronger. She expressed that her experience at the Paris Olympics was eye-opening and fueled her determination to excel.
"This experience has taught me a lot. I believe that if the old Imane operated at 50 percent of her potential, then the Imane Khelif of today is even more motivated and determined," she said.
Boxing’s Return to the 2028 Olympics Secured
In a significant development, Olympic officials have recommended the inclusion of boxing at the 2028 Los Angeles Games following the provisional recognition of a new governing body, World Boxing. The final decision will be confirmed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) later this week in Greece.
When asked about her ambitions, Khelif responded with unwavering confidence:
"Second gold medal, of course. In America, Los Angeles."
Mental and Emotional Toll on Khelif’s Family
Both Khelif and Lin were disqualified from the International Boxing Association's (IBA) 2023 World Championships after failing gender eligibility tests. However, the IOC has since severed ties with the IBA due to concerns regarding governance, finances, and ethics. The IBA, historically associated with amateur boxing, is currently led by Kremlin-linked Russian official Umar Kremlev.
Last month, the IOC provisionally recognized World Boxing as the new governing body tasked with overseeing the sport in future Olympic Games. Khelif on Overcoming Injustice
Imane Khelif remains resolute in her belief that the truth eventually prevails.
"As we say in Algeria, those who have nothing to hide should have no fear," Khelif told ITV. "The truth became clear at the Paris Olympics -- the injustice was exposed and later, the truth was acknowledged by the Olympic Committee in Paris."
Hope for Fairness in Women’s Sports
The ongoing debate surrounding transgender athletes and competitors with differences in sex development (DSD) remains a focal point in the IOC presidential race. Leading candidates, including Juan Antonio Samaranch Junior, Sebastian Coe, and Kirsty Coventry, have emphasized the importance of preserving fairness in women's sports. Coe, the World Athletics president, previously highlighted the stakes:
"If we do not protect women's sport and we don't have a clear and unambiguous set of policies to do that, then we run the risk of losing women's sport," he told AFP.
Khelif’s Faith in IOC Leadership
Looking ahead, Khelif hopes that the next IOC president will uphold the core values of the Olympic movement:
"I hope the next president of the IOC leads with true sportsmanship, stays committed to Olympic principles, and upholds the values of fair play," she said.
As she prepares for Los Angeles, Khelif’s resilience and unwavering belief in fairness continue to inspire many, making her journey one of courage, determination, and perseverance.
