The International Boxing Association (IBA) has opposed the eligibility of two boxers suspected of gender issues at the 2024 Olympics: Imane Khelif and Lin Yu Ting.
Both boxers, Imane Khelif from Algeria and Lin Yu Ting from Chinese Taipei, have reached the semifinals in boxing at the 2024 Olympics. However, they have faced significant opposition from various parties throughout the tournament.
The IBA has maintained its stance against Imane Khelif’s participation in international boxing events (Photo: Getty).
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has allowed these two athletes to compete in the Olympics because their gender is recognized as female. However, it was discovered that they have XY chromosomes in their genetic makeup. This leads to differences in sexual development (DSD). This factor has caused many boxers to feel unfair when facing these athletes who are “not entirely female.”
Last year, the IBA disqualified Imane Khelif from the Women’s World Boxing Championships in New Delhi, India, because she failed a DNA test.
Now, the IBA continues to hold its position. In its latest statement, the IBA confirmed that it has repeatedly opposed the eligibility of Imane Khelif and Lin Yu Ting.
Lin Yu Ting is also under gender suspicion like Imane Khelif (Photo: Standard).
IBA Secretary General Chris Roberts emphasized that these two boxers were tested twice in 2022 and 2023. The results showed that they were ineligible to participate in international competitions.
Chris Roberts shared: “We cannot disclose the blood test results, but we all understand the situation. We have received letters from the Algerian Olympic Committee and Chinese Taipei. The IBA cannot reveal any further information about these two female boxers.”
The IBA has also accused the IOC of “destroying women’s sports.” However, the IOC remains firm in its stance. In the coming days, both Imane Khelif and Lin Yu Ting will compete in the semifinals in their respective weight classes. They have already secured bronze medals but are determined to claim the gold.
