Algerian boxer Imane Khelif defies gender controversy, advances to Olympic finals

Khelif triumphed in her semifinal match against boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng, securing a spot in the final on Aug. 9.

Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer at the centre of a gender eligibility controversy, has overcome the odds and advanced to the finals of the women's 66kg boxing competition at the Paris Olympics.

Despite facing online bullying and accusations of competing in the wrong category, Khelif triumphed in her semifinal match against Thai boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng, securing a spot in the final on August 9.

The Algerian boxer, who previously broke down in tears after winning her quarter-final match due to the immense pressure, was met with resounding cheers and a sea of Algerian flags from a supportive crowd.

Following her victory, Khelif expressed her joy and determination.

In an interview with SNTV, Khelif opened up about the toll the controversy has taken on her and her family.

She condemned the online bullying she has faced and emphasized the importance of upholding Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter.

Khelif vowed that her response to the adversity would be to win a gold medal, sending a powerful message to those who have doubted her.

Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has defended Khelif's right to compete, stating that she was born and raised as a woman, has competed as such in the past, and is registered as a woman on her passport. Bach has suggested that the controversy is a result of a "politically motivated cultural war" and condemned the hate speech and abuse directed towards Khelif.

The International Boxing Association (IBA), which was banned from the Olympics due to ties to the Kremlin and other issues, has countered the IOC's stance, claiming that tests conducted on Khelif revealed elevated testosterone levels and XY chromosomes.

However, Bach has suggested that the IBA's actions are part of a broader agenda against the IOC and the Olympic Games.

Despite the ongoing controversy, Khelif remains focused on her Olympic dream. She is determined to prove her critics wrong and win gold, using her platform to speak out against bullying and advocate for fairness in sports.