Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has spoken out about the bullying and abuse she has faced due to controversy over gender eligibility at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Khelif, along with Taiwan's Lin Yu-Ting, has been targeted by online harassment and false claims about their gender, despite the International Olympic Committee ( IOC ) confirming they meet all the criteria for competing as women.
In an interview, 25-year-old Khelif urged people to stop bullying athletes, stating the severe emotional and mental impact it can have. She emphasised the importance of upholding Olympic principles and respecting all competitors.
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 in Arabic.
It can destroy people, it can kill peoples thoughts, spirit and mind. It can divide people. And because of that, I ask them to refrain from bullying, she added.
