The Olympics gained a new champion in the women’s boxing 66kg category with the amazing Imane Khelif, who courageously fought her way to the top. However, this 25-year-old gold medallist faced serious backlash and cyberbullying attacks from social media users, including two well-known public figures.
Billionaire Elon Musk and “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling have recently been named in a criminal complaint filed with French authorities over alleged “acts of aggravated cyber harassment” against the newly crowned Olympic champion. This news was confirmed by Nabil Boudi, the Paris-based attorney who will represent the Algerian boxer in the legal case.
Imane Khelif became a victim of online bullying after anti-trans activists claimed the 25-year-old athlete was not a biological woman following her fight with Italian boxer Angela Carini. Many users posted harsh comments about the athlete, claiming that she is a man and should not be allowed to compete in women’s sports.
The professional boxer subsequently underwent a gender test to prove her gender and disprove the allegations. It was revealed that, like many women, Imane has PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome), which explains the high testosterone levels in her body. This was also the reason for her previous disqualification in a women’s boxing world championship match in 2023, which many alleged was because she was a man.
It’s not known what would happen with the author and Tesla founder following this case but it’s worth noting that J.K. Rowling is no stranger to transphobic comments and misogynistic beliefs, so her statement did not surprise Twitter users. On the other hand, Elon Musk, who also has a transgender daughter, has shown transphobic tendencies as well.
We wish the best for Imane Khelif as she fights against hate. We also take this opportunity to congratulate her on her victorious Olympic win and hope to see her continue as a reigning champion, inspiring women all around the world.
Sources: Twitter (1)(2), Variety
Jade Mary contributed to this story.
