The ongoing debate over Algerian boxer Imane Khelif’s gender has reached a critical point after her team revealed significant findings from a leading endocrinologist. The revelation comes just days after Khelif won an Olympic gold medal in Paris, a victory overshadowed by controversy. The controversy began when the International Boxing Association (IBA) banned her from competing in the 2023 World Championships, saying a gender eligibility test suggested she had XY chromosomes, typically associated with men, sparking widespread debate.

Khelif’s journey to Paris has been a mix of triumph and controversy. Despite her gold medal, questions about her gender persisted, with some accusing her of having an unfair advantage. The scrutiny intensified when her father showed her birth certificate on French television, confirming she was born a woman. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has also backed Khelif, dismissing the IBA tests as unreliable and affirming her right to compete in the women’s category.

The latest twist in the saga came when Khelif’s coach, George Cazorla, shared the results from an endocrinologist at the University Hospital of Paris. According to Cazorla, the doctor confirmed that while Khelif has some chromosomal and hormonal abnormalities, she is biologically female. Khelif’s team has been working with a doctor in Algeria to monitor and regulate her testosterone levels, which are now within the typical female range. Cazorla noted that recent tests show a decline in Khelif’s muscle mass and other physical attributes, contradicting claims of an unfair advantage.

The controversy surrounding Khelif intensified after her victory over Italy’s Angela Carini, leading to renewed speculation about her gender. As the debate intensified, public figures such as Elon Musk, J.K. Rowling, and swimmer Riley Gaines spoke out, with Gaines controversially stating that “men have no place in women’s sports.” However, Khelif also received support from figures such as footballer Ismael Bennacer and former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen, who argued that the IBA tests had been misinterpreted and that definitive proof of XY chromosomes had not been provided.

Khelif’s dominant performance at the Olympics, particularly his victory over 2023 world champion Liu Yang, was seen by many as a definitive answer to the allegations. He outclassed his opponent in all three rounds, demonstrating his talent and superiority in the ring. After his victory, Khelif directly addressed the controversy, stating, “I am a woman like any other.” “I was born a woman, I lived as a woman, I competed as a woman, there is no doubt about it.”

While the debate may persist in some circles, the findings revealed by Khelif’s team provide compelling validation in the boxer’s favor. It is hoped that this clarification will help put the controversy to rest, allowing Khelif to fully celebrate his achievements and continue his career without a shadow of doubt hanging over it.