Olympic boxer Imane Khelif has called for an end to bullying athletes following intense scrutiny based on misconceptions about her gender. The Algerian athlete made this call during an interview with SNTV, stating that the bullying of athletes “harms human dignity” and can have devastating effects. Khelif, who has reached the semifinals in the Paris Games, highlighted the support she has received from the International Olympic Committee amid accusations from the banned International Boxing Association (IBA) about her eligibility. Last year, the IBA banned her from participating in the world championships based on claims that she failed unspecified eligibility tests. This cast aspersions on her gender, leading to the vitriol she’s experienced at the Paris Games. Despite the pressure, Khelif remains focused on winning Algeria’s first Olympic gold in women’s boxing. Her next match is against Janjaem Suwannapheng of Thailand with a win guaranteeing her a place in the final.
SOURCE: AP NEWS
Olympic Boxer Imane Khelif Speaks Out Against Bullying After Backlash
