Algiers: Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has addressed allegations of being a transgender athlete in response to comments made by United States President Donald Trump. During the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Khelif faced controversy when she was accused of being a 'male boxer' who had transitioned. This led to President Trump advocating for a ban on transgender athletes.
According to Ghana Web, after assuming office in 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled 'Keep Men Out of Women's Sports,' aiming to prohibit transgender athletes from competing in women's sports categories. This move has been met with both support and opposition.
In reaction to the claims, Khelif firmly denied President Trump's assertions, clarifying her identity. She stressed that she was born a woman and has always identified as such. Khelif expressed her aspirations for the future, particularly the 2028 Olympics set to take place in the United States, where she hopes to earn a medal from President Trump.
Khelif expressed her respect towards President Trump, stating, "I respect everyone, and I respect Trump because he's the president of the United States. Trump cannot distort the truth. I'm not trans, I'm a girl. I was raised as a girl, I grew up as a girl, and people in my village have always known me as a girl." She further added, "I respect him if he respects the truth. If I could say something to him? Mr President, I'm a girl, a young Arab Muslim woman, a boxer. And I'm working so you can come and give me a medal on the podium in Los Angeles."
The controversy surrounding transgender athletes continues, with the Olympics planning to ban all transgender athletes. However, discussions persist about athletes with reported biological conditions, such as Khelif, whose eligibility will be determined through testing.