A leaked medical report has reignited controversy surrounding Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif, alleging that the athlete is biologically male—a claim that has drawn global attention and stirred debate over gender eligibility in women’s sports.
Khelif, who clinched gold in the women’s boxing category at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has faced scrutiny before. However, a document reportedly originating from India’s Dr Lal PathLabs — an internationally accredited diagnostic facility — has intensified the spotlight. The report, dated March 2023 and circulated by journalist Alan Abrahamson of 3 Wire Sports, claims that Khelif possesses a male karyotype, citing the presence of the SRY gene, typically found on the Y chromosome.
The revelation comes days after World Boxing mandated that Khelif undergo genetic testing in accordance with its newly adopted “Sex, Age and Weight” policy, introduced in May 2025. The policy requires athletes aged 18 and above to submit to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to verify the presence or absence of the SRY gene, part of a broader framework aimed at safeguarding fair competition in combat sports.
Until she complies with the new standards, Khelif has been barred from participating in sanctioned events, including the upcoming Eindhoven Box Cup. World Boxing said the emergency revisions were enacted by its executive board in response to evolving concerns around safety and integrity in women’s boxing.
“These new eligibility rules were developed with the express purpose of safeguarding athletes in combat sports,” a World Boxing statement read.
Khelif, 25, had previously faced a similar setback in 2023 when she was disqualified by the now-defunct International Boxing Association (IBA) over gender eligibility concerns. That ruling, however, was contested by several officials at the time, including former International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, who questioned the credibility of the testing protocols.
Despite the controversy, Khelif made a triumphant return to the ring at the Paris Olympics, where she became the first Algerian woman to win Olympic gold in boxing — a feat that was widely celebrated in Algeria.
Responding to the latest report, the Algerian Olympic Committee dismissed the allegations as “unsubstantiated” and “politically motivated,” accusing detractors of attempting to tarnish the reputation of an athlete who “brought honour to our nation.”
Khelif has consistently denied all allegations regarding her gender identity. Following her Olympic win, she maintained a visible public presence and reiterated her commitment to defending her title at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Prominent figures have weighed in on the controversy. British broadcaster Piers Morgan demanded an apology from critics who previously dismissed his warnings on gender fairness in sport. Former British Olympian Sharron Davies voiced concern over the “erosion of women’s sport,” while American activist Riley Gaines referred to Khelif using male pronouns in a widely circulated social media post.
The debate echoes broader global discussions around the inclusion of transgender and intersex athletes in elite women’s competitions, particularly in high-impact sports such as boxing, swimming, and athletics. Critics argue that biological differences pose safety and fairness concerns, while advocates of inclusion urge respect for gender identity and personal dignity.
Khelif is not the only athlete to face such allegations. Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, who also competed in Paris despite a previous disqualification by the IBA, has similarly been under scrutiny.
World Boxing has reiterated that athletes with unresolved gender certification issues remain ineligible to compete. “Our aim is to ensure a safe and competitive playing field,” a spokesperson said.
As the sporting world awaits further clarity on the matter, Khelif’s future in competitive boxing remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the intersection of gender identity and elite sport will continue to prompt difficult questions — ones that governing bodies, athletes, and fans alike must navigate with care, evidence, and empathy.
