Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who captured international attention with her Olympic gold at the Paris 2024 Games, is taking legal action against media outlets that published reports on her medical records. These reports, which leaked Khelif's alleged XY chromosomes, reignited a gender controversy that followed her victory over Italy’s Angela Carini in the opening round of the boxing tournament. Khelif’s quick and decisive victory in just 46 seconds, which left Carini injured and unable to continue, led to public debates and criticism from various political and celebrity figures, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and JK Rowling.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed its support for Khelif, stating that she has competed in the women’s category in multiple international competitions, including the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Despite facing online abuse and harassment due to the controversy, Khelif has filed a legal complaint in France over the online harassment and is pursuing additional lawsuits following the unverified leaks of her medical records. The IOC also conveyed its sadness regarding the abuse Khelif has endured, emphasizing that her eligibility and participation in women’s boxing competitions have followed established protocols.

Since her return to Algeria, Khelif has been hailed as a national hero for her Olympic success. The boxer’s case highlights the continued challenges athletes face when their gender identity is questioned and serves as a reminder of the need for respectful discourse and privacy regarding athletes' personal medical information. Khelif's legal actions underscore the importance of protecting athletes from harassment and ensuring fair treatment in sports.