Interactions and discussions continue The gender identity of Algerian Olympic champion Iman KhalifThis time, it takes a decisive scientific and medical dimension. French specialist doctor Philippe Pélisé took the initiative to intervene to end the rumors and allegations that have haunted the young boxer since she won gold in Paris Olympics 2024.
In an initiative aimed at clarifying the facts, Dr. Pellissé published a video clip on his official accounts on social media, in which he presented conclusive scientific evidence confirming that Iman Khalif is biologically female and not “transgender,” as some malicious campaigns attempted to promote this in sports and media circles.
Algerian Iman Khalif
Despite his categorical confirmation of the matter, the doctor did not deny in his statement on the Instagram platform that there were genetic complications in the case of the Algerian heroine. Pellissé, who works as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Paris, explained that the SRY gene may in rare cases be transferred between the X and Y chromosomes.
This transition allows the individual to have a feminine appearance (XX), while his body naturally produces higher levels of male hormones.
The SRY gene, which is naturally located on the male Y chromosome, is mainly responsible for giving orders to the body to start developing male reproductive organs during the first weeks of pregnancy.
In very rare medical cases, this gene may move to the X chromosome or stop working, resulting in a mismatch between chromosomes and appearance.
The sexual identity of Iman Khalif
The French surgeon confirmed unequivocally that Iman is a female athlete, who was born and raised as a woman and did not undergo any gender reassignment surgery.
Pelisse considered that the champion’s athletic career reflects great courage, given that she was forced to follow strict medical protocols, which included undergoing hormonal treatment under close medical supervision, with the aim of lowering her testosterone level to comply with the strict requirements of international competitions.
The Algerian champion recently reported, in an interview with the French newspaper L’Equipe, that she had already undergone hormonal treatment in response to the conditions for participating in official competitions.
Iman categorically denied any connection to sexual transformation, stressing that she has female hormones and that she is ready to comply with any procedures required of her, including undergoing gender identity tests, provided that they are carried out under the supervision of the International Olympic Committee.
It should be noted that Union World Boxing, provisionally recognized by the International Olympic Committee to supervise the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, announced last May the imposition of mandatory gender identity tests for all participating female boxers.
These developments come after the historic achievement achieved by Iman Khalif by winning the gold medal in the women’s welterweight division in Paris 2024, despite the widespread controversy and skepticism campaigns that targeted her, in which prominent figures such as US President Donald Trump participated, following her controversial exclusion from the 2023 World Championships by the International Boxing Federation.
