Algerian female boxer Imane Khelif wants an end to “bullying athletes” after she made it to the headlines following her win against Italy’s Angela Carini in just 46 seconds at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Khelif, along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting, were disqualified from the 2023 World Championships after failing International Boxing Association (IBA) eligibility rules.
However, the IBA was stripped of its recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) last year over governance and finance issues.
The IOC defended its decision to allow Khelif and Yu-ting to compete at the Olympics.
During a recent interview, Khelif called for an end to the bullying of athletes saying that it can “destroy” people and their thoughts, spirit and mind.
“I send a message to all the people of the world to uphold the Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes, because this has effects, massive effects,” Khelif said.
"It can destroy people, it can kill people’s thoughts, spirit and mind. It can divide people."
Khelif and Lin will now compete for Olympic medals after reaching the semi-final. Should they qualify for the final, they will fight for the gold.
“I am in contact with my family two days a week. I hope that they weren’t affected deeply,” she said. “They are worried about me. God willing, this crisis will culminate in a gold medal, and that would be the best response.”
Khelif was asked if she had undergone tests other than doping tests saying that she does not wish to discuss this topic. The Algerian also thanked the IOC for allowing her to compete and letting the controversy discourage her efforts in the ring.
“I don’t care about anyone’s opinion,” Khelif said a day after beating Anna Luca Hamori of Hungary. “I came here for a medal, and to compete for a medal. I will certainly be competing to improve [and] be better, and God willing, I will improve, like every other athlete.”
