An expansive wave is shaking the world of sport and female boxing. The Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, a rising star and finalist in several international competitions, has been excluded from all 2025 women’s world championships after a DNA test revealed that it has XY chromosomes, which are biologically masculine. This test would have been requested directly by Elon Musk, according to sources close to the International Boxing Association (IBA).

A revelation that shakes world sport

Imane Khelif, 25, was considered one of the favorites for the next world championships and the Olympic Games. However, his career has just taken a dramatic turn. After several rumors about his “physical masculinity”, a complete DNA test would have been performed at the instances of Elon Musk, who publicly claims to support “biological integrity in sport.”

The test result revealed that Khelif has XY chromosomes, typically masculine, which means that it would have an intersexual condition called insensitivity to androgens. This condition, although uncommon, means that a person can have a female appearance despite having male genetics.

Elon Musk in the center of controversy

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

Female competitions must remain feminine. Biological equity is fundamental in sport.

His statement caused a wave of reactions on social networks, some accused him of transphobia and others thanked him for defending justice in sport.

The president was then confirmed that Khelif may no longer compete in the female categories and that a review of the eligibility criteria for all competitions will soon be implemented.

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

Given this decision, Imane Khelif reacted with emotion:

I was born and grew as a woman. I fought honestly, I never cheated. This decision is public humiliation. They are snatching everything.

He also indicated that he will resort to international sports courts, claiming discrimination based on a genetic condition out of control.

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

An explosive debate is revived

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

Similar cases have already been news, in particular that of Caster Semeasya, South African Olympic champion, which was also excluded from certain competitions for similar reasons.

And now?

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

As for Elon Musk, his direct involvement in this matter feeds the controversy again: is it a defender of sports equity or a billionaire that overrews himself in international sports affairs?

One thing is safe: the boxing world, and more widely that of sport, will never be the same after this matter.