Imane Khelif gender identity: Algerian Olympic boxer Imane Khelif, who won gold in the 66kg womens boxing category at the Paris 2024 Olympics, is once again facing gender-related scrutiny. Leaked medical reports allege that Khelif lacks a uterus, has internal testes, and shows characteristics associated with a condition affecting sexual development.Allegations following medical examinationA report by journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia, published in Reduxx, claims that medical evaluations confirm Khelif has internal testes and suffers from 5-alpha reductase deficiency, a genetic condition impacting sexual development in genetic males. These reports, reportedly produced through a collaboration between the Kremlin-Bicêtre Hospital in Paris and Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Hospital in Algiers, highlight findings from June 2023.Findings in Khelifs medical reportAccording to the report, Khelifs MRI scan allegedly indicated the absence of a uterus, the presence of internal testes, and an “enlarged clitoris” similar to a micropenis. Chromosome analysis is said to have confirmed an XY karyotype, and hormone tests suggested testosterone levels typical of males.Understanding 5-Alpha reductase deficiency5-alpha reductase deficiency is a genetic condition affecting sexual development, particularly in those genetically male, from birth through puberty. Individuals with this condition may be assigned female at birth due to ambiguous genitalia but often experience masculinization at puberty, including increased muscle mass, body hair growth, and minimal breast development.Khelifs competitive history, IOCs stanceIn 2023, Khelif was suspended by the International Boxing Association (IBA) from competing in a World Championship fight in New Delhi after reportedly failing a chromosome test. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) permitted Khelifs participation in the Paris Olympics, citing that she was assigned female at birth, making her eligible to compete. Khelif had previously competed in various IBA events before her suspension, and despite the controversy, her eligibility has been upheld by the IOC.
