Boxer Imane Khelif Affirms Her Gender Amid Remarks from Donald Trump

Imane Khelif, the Olympic boxing champion, has stated her willingness to undergo a sex verification test to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This declaration follows remarks made by former US President Donald Trump, who referred to her as a 'male boxer.'

At 26 years old, Khelif gained international attention after clinching a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, her victory has been shrouded in controversy, stemming from accusations that she didn't pass a gender eligibility test the year prior.

In 2025, World Boxing announced that all competitors would be required to undergo mandatory sex screening, specifically referencing Khelif in their communication, a point for which the governing body later issued an apology.

Since these screening requirements were implemented, Khelif has not participated in any competitions. She has taken her case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking permission to compete without undergoing the tests. A hearing on the matter is still pending.

Despite the ongoing legal battle, the Algerian boxer stated that she will not give up her fight against the organization and expressed readiness to take a sex verification test in order to compete in the upcoming Olympics.

"I would certainly comply with whatever requirements are necessary to partake in competitions," Khelif informed CNN.

She added that it is essential to protect female athletes, but emphasized that the measures should not disadvantage other women.

Last year, Trump signed an executive order titled 'Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports', during which he mischaracterized Khelif as a 'male boxer' who had 'transitioned' and allegedly 'stolen' the women’s gold medal by competing in Paris.

Trump reiterated his stance during a speech to Republican lawmakers in January by again labeling Khelif a 'male' boxer.

His assertions that Khelif is transgender have been disputed. Khelif was assigned female at birth, but it is believed she has the SRY gene associated with male sex chromosomes.