A shock wave shakes the world of sport and female boxing. The Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, a rising star and finalist of several international competitions, was excluded from all the world female championships of 2025 after a DNA test revealed that she has xy chromosomes, biologically male. This test would have been requested directly by Elon Musk, according to sources close to the International Boxing Association (IBA).

A revelation that makes world sport tremble

Imane Khelif, 25, was considered a favorite for the next world championships and the Olympic Games. However, his career has just taken a dramatic turning point. After several rumors about his “physical masculinity”, a complete DNA test would have been carried out on the pressing demand of Elon Musk, who publicly claims to support “biological integrity in sport”.

The test result revealed that Khelif has typically male chromosomes, which means that it would be affected by an intersex condition called insensitivity to androgens. This condition, although rare, means that a person can have a female appearance despite male genetics.

Elon Musk at the heart of the controversy

Elon Musk, already known for his controversial positions on many social subjects, said on X (formerly Twitter):

“Female competitions must remain feminine. Biological equity is a basis for sport. »»

His statement sparked a wave of reactions on social networks, some accusing him of transphobia, others thanking him for defending sports equity.

The president of IBA then confirmed that Khelif could no longer compete in the female categories, and that a revision of the eligibility criteria would soon be set up for all competitions.

Imane Khelif’s reaction: “It’s a humiliation”

Faced with this decision, Imane Khelif reacted with emotion:

“I was born and I was raised as a woman. I fought honestly, I never cheated. This decision is a public humiliation. I’m tearing me everything. »»

She also said she wanted to appeal to the international sport courts, denouncing discrimination based on a genetic condition that she does not control.

Feminist movements and LGBTQ+ immediately expressed their support for Khelif, denouncing a witch hunt and human rights infringement.

An explosive debate relaunched

This scandal relaunches the burning debate on the participation of intersex and transgender people in women’s sport. Several international sports federations are under pressure to review their regulations, oscillating between inclusion and biological equity.

Similar cases have already hit the headlines, notably that of Caster Semenya, South African Olympic champion, also excluded from certain competitions for similar reasons.

And now ?

For Imane Khelif, the future is uncertain. If some suggest that it could contribute in the male category, this perspective seems unrealistic, both physically and psychologically.

As for Elon Musk, his direct involvement in this case once again feeds the controversy: is he a defender of sports equity or a billionaire who goes beyond his limits in the affairs of international sport?

One thing is certain: the world of boxing, and more broadly of sport, will never be the same after this affair.