"Please stop this"

Khelif desperate: “It can destroy people”

The controversial Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has sent an emotional message to all critics.(Bild: AP/ASSOCIATED PRESS)

The controversial Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has sent a message to all critics. "Stop bullying athletes, because it has consequences, massive consequences," warns the Algerian. The discussions about her person could downright destroy a person.

"I'm sending a message to people around the world to stop bullying athletes because it has an impact, a massive impact," Khelif told viewers in an interview with "SNTV". The controversial Algerian was visibly emotional. The discussions surrounding her have left their mark.

"This kind of thing can destroy people, it can kill people's thoughts, spirit and minds," warned the 25-year-old. A fierce debate has flared up around her and Lin Yu-Ting from Taiwan at the Olympic Games in Paris.

"Arbitrary decision"
Lin and Khelif had been excluded by the boxing association IBA, which is no longer recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Khelif had also been excluded from the 2023 World Championships due to elevated testosterone levels, but the IOC had granted permission to compete in Paris.

"I know that the IOC has given me justice and I am happy with this remedy because it shows the truth," said the boxer, expressing her gratitude. The IOC spoke of an "arbitrary decision without due process" with regard to the exclusion from the World Championships. However, this did not stop the debates surrounding Lin and Khelif.