Algerian Olympic gold medallist Imane Khelif has filed a lawsuit alleging that she was subjected to a “misogynist, racist, and sexist campaign” during the Paris Olympic Games. The complaint names prominent figures like author JK Rowling, Elon Musk, and Donald Trump, as well as social media platforms for online harassment based on her gender.
The French prosecutors have launched an investigation into cyberbullying claims against Khelif, who became Algeria’s first gold medallist in women’s boxing since 1996. The controversy arose after her Italian opponent withdrew from a bout, leading to false claims that Khelif was transgender or a man. Comments from Rowling, Musk, and Trump further fueled the backlash.
The International Olympic Committee defended Khelif and denounced the spread of misinformation. Khelif, along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting, faced gender eligibility testing after being disqualified from last year’s world championship. Khelif has maintained that she is “a woman like any other” and has received support and praise in Algeria for her victory.
Khelif’s coach has stated that the lawsuit in France should serve as a lesson in defending the rights and dignity of athletes globally. The attacks against Khelif were seen as an attempt to break her spirit, but she emerged victorious. The boxer’s complaint highlights the importance of standing up against cyberbullying and discrimination in sports.
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