A leaked medical report from the 2023 World Championships has raised questions regarding the eligibility of Imane Khelif, the women’s boxing gold medalist representing Algeria at the Paris Olympics last summer. The document, reportedly obtained by journalist Alan Abrahamson and published on 3 Wire Sports, states that chromosome analysis found a male karyotype (XY) in Khelif’s genetic test.
This revelation follows World Boxing’s recent decision that Khelif must undergo sex screening to be eligible to compete in future female events. The report was conducted by Dr Lal Path Labs in New Delhi, an accredited facility, and describes the findings as “abnormal” with regard to typical female karyotypes.
IOC President Thomas Bach had previously questioned the legitimacy of the test results, highlighting complexities involving the International Boxing Association’s governance. The situation remains a subject of debate within the boxing and sports community.
Khelif’s participation in women’s boxing has sparked discussions about fairness and safety in the sport. Notably, Italian boxer Angela Carini withdrew from a bout after sustaining a strong blow during a match with Khelif, which added to concerns expressed by some athletes.
World Boxing, which will oversee Olympic boxing events in Los Angeles 2028, has announced a new policy requiring all athletes over 18 to undergo PCR genetic testing to verify eligibility in sex-specific categories. This measure aims to ensure safety and fairness, given the physical demands of the sport.
The controversy around Khelif highlights ongoing challenges in balancing inclusivity and competitive fairness in women’s sports, as organizations work to develop policies that respect athletes’ rights while addressing concerns related to biological variation.
JK Rowling praised World Boxing’s decision to block Olympic champion Imane Khelif from competing in female boxing, calling it a “win for women” after a leaked medical report revealed Khelif is a biological male. The ruling prevents Khelif from entering future female events without mandatory sex screening, following disqualification from the 2023 World Championship.
I never said and never believed Khelif was trans. I knew* he was a man. The gender activists who created a political climate in which sex testing was seen as 'bigoted' are as culpable as the IOC for the travesty that ensued.
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) June 2, 2025
*via a highly credible source who saw his test results pic.twitter.com/c9fcPRxwSf
Both Khelif and her representatives have not publicly commented on the leaked report. The Algerian Olympic Committee has described some allegations as unsubstantiated and emphasized the athlete’s contributions on the international stage.
This case remains under review, reflecting the complexities of gender identity and biology in competitive sports, and the evolving standards for athlete eligibility.
