Algerian female boxer Imane Khelif has advanced to the gold medal fight at the Paris Olympics after winning her semifinal match in the women’s 66-kilogram division. She, along with Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, has faced scrutiny and false accusations regarding their gender and eligibility to compete with women. The controversy stems from their disqualification at the Women’s World Boxing Championships last year by the International Boxing Association, citing alleged failed gender tests showing male chromosomes. The International Olympic Committee has supported Khelif and Lin, emphasizing their eligibility based on their passport genders. The IOC cut ties with the IBA due to financial and ethical impropriety, questioning the legitimacy of the association’s eligibility tests. Despite the allegations, Khelif and Lin have maintained that they are women. With their strong performances, they have garnered support from fans, athletes like Nikki Hiltz, and apologies from those who initially criticized them. The IBA’s recent disqualification of the two boxers at the 2023 competition has raised further questions due to the timing and lack of transparency. As Khelif and Lin continue to compete, the debate on gender eligibility in sports and the credibility of boxing associations such as the IBA remains unresolved.
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