Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, has spoken out about the bullying and abuse she has received as a result of the dispute around gender eligibility at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Khelif, along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-Ting, have been subjected to internet hostility and false assertions regarding their gender, despite the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stating they match all of the requirements for competing as women.
In an interview, Khelif, 25, advised people to cease bullying athletes, citing the negative emotional and mental effects it can have. She highlighted the significance of adhering to Olympic standards and respecting all participants.
“I send a message to all the people of the world to uphold the Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes, because this has effects, massive effects,” Khelif, in Arabic, added.
“It has the ability to destroy people and annihilate their thoughts, spirits, and minds. It has the potential to cause division among individuals. And as a result, I beg that they avoid from bullying,” she said.
Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting have both advanced to the semi-finals, ensuring at least a bronze medal.
Despite the unfavourable attention, Khelif remains focused on her objective of earning a gold medal and developing as an athlete.
“I contact my family twice a week. I hope they weren’t too affected. They’re worried about me. “God willing, this crisis will result in a gold medal, which would be the best response,” she remarked.
The controversy arose when the International Boxing Association (IBA), which is barred from competing at the Olympics, claimed Khelif and Lin violated gender eligibility checks. The IOC has denied these allegations and defended the athletes.
“I was unable to manage my nerves. Because, after the media frenzy and the victory, there was a mix of joy and sadness, and I was deeply impacted, because it wasn’t an easy experience. “It was something that undermined human dignity,” Khelif stated in the interview.
She thanked the IOC for their support and vowed to perform to the best of her ability.
“I know that the Olympic Committee has done me justice, and I am happy with this remedy because it shows the truth,” she explained.
The Olympian stated that she has dealt with the pressures of the circumstance while remaining focused on her performance.