The father of Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who is competing in the ongoing Paris Olympics, has publicly defended his daughter amid controversy over her gender, according to Reuters.
Amar Khelif condemned the attacks on his daughter as “immoral,” emphasizing that athletes with Differences of Sexual Development have a place in sports. He praised Imane for honoring their family with her achievements.
The controversy erupted after Italian boxer Angela Carini withdrew from their match within 46 seconds due to Khelif’s powerful performance at the Paris Olympics on August 1.
This issue was further complicated by Khelif’s previous disqualification from the 2023 International Boxing Association (IBA) World Championships due to a gender eligibility test. Despite this, the International Olympic Committee permitted her to compete in Paris.
In an interview from his modest home near Tiaret, Algeria, Amar Khelif expressed pride in his daughter and voiced his hope that she will win a medal for Algeria. “Having such a daughter is an honor,” he said.
“She is a champion and has honored me. I support her fully and hope she succeeds in Paris.” He also shared an official document verifying Imane’s birthdate as May 2, 1999, affirming her gender.
Imane Khelif had faced disqualification from IBA rules barring athletes with XY chromosomes from competing in women’s events, which occurred just hours before her gold-medal bout in New Delhi last year.
Bouchra Rebihi, a 17-year-old aspiring professional, dismissed the critics of Khelif, asserting her status as a champion. “Critics aim to destabilize her, but she is a champion and will remain one.”
Khelif is scheduled to compete against Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori later on Sunday in the women’s welterweight quarterfinals.
