Imane Khelif, Olympic gold medallist, identified as 'man' with internal testicles in leaked report
MRI Reveals Controversial Findings In Boxer Imane Khelif
The gender identity of Algerian boxer Imane Khelif is once again being questioned. Photo: Reuters
Algerian Olympic boxer Imane Khelif, who claimed the gold medal in the women’s 66kg boxing event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is once again embroiled in a controversy related to gender after new information surfaced regarding her eligibility. A report from Reduxx states that medical documents reviewed by French journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia indicate that Khelif has "testicles."
The report also mentions that Khelif has a condition known as 5-alpha reductase deficiency, which affects sexual development in individuals assigned male at birth. It has been suggested that the leaked medical documents were prepared in June 2023 through a partnership between the Kremlin-Bicêtre Hospital in Paris, France, and the Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Hospital in Algiers, Algeria.
Imane Khelif's Health Report Update
A medical assessment of Imane Khelif, featuring an MRI and various other examinations, revealed traits linked to a sexual development disorder. The MRI reportedly indicated that Khelif did not possess a uterus, had internal testes, and displayed a “micropenis” that resembled an enlarged clitoris.
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According to the medical report, chromosome tests confirmed an XY karyotype, and hormone analysis showed testosterone levels were consistent with what is normally found in males.
Understanding 5-Alpha Reductase Deficiency
5-alpha reductase deficiency is a hereditary condition that influences sexual development in individuals who are genetically male. It affects them both during fetal development and in their teenage years. Those with this condition might be designated as female at birth because their external genitalia do not clearly show male or female characteristics. Generally, people with this deficiency undergo changes associated with masculinization during puberty, which can involve increased muscle growth, body hair, and minimal breast development.
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In 2023, the Algerian boxer was banned by the International Boxing Association (IBA), which is currently suspended, from competing in the World Championship Gold Medal match held in New Delhi due to a reported failure in a chromosome test. Despite this setback, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) granted him permission to compete in the Paris Olympics.
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According to the IOC, Khelif was designated as female at birth, and her passport reflects this classification, allowing her to participate in the Games.
It's worth mentioning that Khelif took part in several events organized by IBA prior to being suspended in 2023.
The International Boxing Association (IBA) was put on hold by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) because of problems related to its management and allegations of corruption.
