Imane Khelif is an Algerian boxer who has been at the center of controversy due to her gender. Khelif, the 25-year-old hails from Tiaret, Algeria and is currently the brand ambassador of UNICEF. According to the sources, Kehlifs father did not want her to play boxing as she was a girl, but she wanted to motivate the next generations by winning gold at big stages. What is the controversy all aboutThe issue arose during the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she competed in the womens boxing category. Khelifs situation has sparked debate because some people have questioned whether her inclusion in the womens category aligns with existing regulations and standards for gender classification in sports.On Thursday, Italian boxer Angela Carini withdrew from her 66 kg womens boxing match against Algerias Imane Khelif, granting Khelif an early victory. Khelif, who had been barred from world championships due to issues with testosterone and gender eligibility tests, won the fight in just 46 seconds after Carinis abrupt exit. The match saw only a few punches exchanged before Carinis rare and unexpected withdrawal in Olympic boxing.The controversy highlights ongoing discussions about gender, fairness, and inclusion in athletics. Different sports organizations have various criteria for determining eligibility, and these can sometimes lead to heated debates, particularly in high-profile events like the Olympics.2023 Gender controversyImane Khelif first triggered the gender controversy at the 2023 World Boxing Championships held in New Delhi, India. Khelif, an Algerian boxer, became the centre of attention due to her participation in the womens category despite previous records of competing in mens boxing. This sparked a debate over gender classifications in sports and the criteria for female athletes competing in international events. The controversy highlighted ongoing discussions about gender identity and fairness in sports.Based on the results of the DNA tests, the Olympic body proved that Khelif had XY chromosomes and such athletes were excluded from competition. However, the Algerian Olympic Committee took a different stance on Khelifs elimination, saying that she was disqualified for medical reasons.
