Algerian boxer Imane Khelif faced intense backlash following her gold medal win in the women’s 66kg division at the Paris Olympics, where her powerful punch ended the match against Italy’s Angela Carini in just 46 seconds. Carini claimed she had “never felt a punch like this,” sparking controversy over Khelif’s eligibility to compete in women’s sports.
Critics, including politicians like Donald Trump and JD Vance, accused Khelif of being “unfairly” strong, with unfounded claims about her biological sex. Khelif, 26, denied the rumors, stating, “I am not transgender. I’m a woman like any other.”
She described the backlash as “bullying” that deeply affected her and her family. Despite the scrutiny, Khelif says winning gold was her best response to the criticism. As she prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, she hopes for greater awareness and compassion, urging an end to harmful speculation about athletes’ identities.