French prosecutors announced on Wednesday that an investigation has been initiated in response to a complaint filed by Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif, who was embroiled in a gender controversy during the Paris Olympic Games. The Paris public prosecutor's office informed AFP that the investigation into 'cyberharassment' was opened on Tuesday, following the prominent gender dispute at the Games.
Khelif returned to a triumphant reception on Monday after securing gold at the Olympics. She claimed victory with a unanimous decision against China's Yang Liu in the women's 66kg final. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd chanting 'Tahia Imane' (long live Imane), the boxer expressed: 'I aimed to demonstrate the strength of performance and the presence of women, especially Algerian women.'
The International Olympic Committee assumed control of the boxing competition in Paris after growing impatient with the International Boxing Association (IBA). The IBA, under the leadership of Umar Kremlev, responded during the Games by stating that it had disqualified Khelif and Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting from its world championships the previous year, citing test results indicating 'these are men.' Both boxers had been permitted to compete in Tokyo three years prior.
Khelif, 25, spoke out about what she described as a 'relentless campaign' on Monday. She expressed her gratitude to the Algerian people for their support during this challenging time, which she said gave her strength. 'Algerian women serve as an example and a model for the entire world,' the boxer declared. 'Thanks to God, we have upheld Algeria's honor and proudly displayed the Algerian flag in Paris, which is the most significant achievement.'
