Boxer Imane Khelif Chooses to Withdraw from Competition Due to World Boxing's Enforced Sex Testing Requirements
Fresh Spin#### Controversial Boxer Faces New Hurdle: World Boxing's New Sex Testing Policy
In the ongoing saga of Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxing champion, a new obstacle emerges: World Boxing's recent sex testing policy implementation.
After a victorious run, including gold at the Paris Games last year, Khelif faces scrutiny due to allegations questioning her eligibility to compete in the women's division. Previous chromosome tests by the International Boxing Association (IBA) reportedly revealed XY markers, signifying a male karyotype, raising questions about her participation[3][4].
In an effort to ensure a fair and competitive environment for all participants, World Boxing unveiled its new "Sex, Age, and Weight" policy on May 30, 2025[2]. This policy mandates sex testing for all athletes, aiming to maintain a level playing field for both genders. The policy becomes effective on July 1, with the option for immediate testing if an athlete's sex certification is disputed by their federation or World Boxing[2].
Under this policy, Khelif was instructed to undergo sex testing to confirm her eligibility for competition. However, Khelif has opted not to compete in the female category of the Eindhoven Box Cup and any other World Boxing events until the testing is completed[1].
After initial controversy regarding associating the policy with Khelif specifically, World Boxing later issued an apology, acknowledging their mistake and addressing the controversy surrounding her participation in women's boxing events[2].
Amid the controversy, Khelif continues to assert her identity as female. She has even filed a lawsuit against critics on social media, claiming they discredit her gender identity[1]. Before the policy implementation, Khelif had expressed her intent to compete in the 2028 Olympics, despite former U.S. President Donald Trump's "No Men in Women's Sports" executive order[1]. However, policy implications are still unclear, and Khelif addressed the concern by stating,
As this unfolds, it's clear that the sports world, and beyond, continues to grapple with questions surrounding representation and fairness in competitive sports.
[1] Ryan Gaydos, Jackson Thompson, and The Associated Press. (n.d.). California track star opens up about being disqualified over 'unsportsmanlike' celebration with her dad. Retrieved from https://www.foxnews.com/[2] Williams, E. (2025, June 1). World Boxing apologizes for line about Imane Khelif in new sex testing policy. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/[3] 3 Wire Sports. (2024, August 24). Olympic gender controversy boxer Imane Khelif starts Polish judging. Retrieved from https://www.3wiresports.com/[4] 3 Wire Sports. (2024, October 5). Imane Khelif's DNA shows markers with male karyotypes. Retrieved from https://www.3wiresports.com/
In light of World Boxing's new "Sex, Age, and Weight" policy implementation, Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxing champion, has decided not to compete in women's division events until she undergoes sex testing to confirm her eligibility. Despite this, Khelif continues to assert her identity as a female and has filed a lawsuit against critics discrediting her gender identity.
Following the implementation of the sex testing policy in sports, questions surrounding representation and fairness in competitive events persist, particularly in the context of Imane Khelif's case.
