ALGIERS, Algeria 

The Algerian Olympic and Sports Committee has strongly condemned the smear campaigns targeting boxer Imane Khelif during her participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The committee affirmed that it has taken necessary measures to protect her. 

Khelif defeated her Italian opponent Angela Carini in just 46 seconds, sparking backlash from some Western media outlets.

In a statement issued on Thursday evening, the committee addressed “the unethical behavior directed at our champion, Imane Khelif, by certain foreign media outlets through false propaganda.”

“Such attacks are entirely unethical and baseless, especially as she prepares for the pinnacle event of her athletic career—the Olympic Games,” the statement added.

The committee also called on the Algerian government to support Khelif, noting that “her outstanding performance has caused discomfort for some.”

The smear campaign against Khelif included allegations from Western media and prominent figures like Elon Musk, owner of the platform X.

The attackers tried to portray Khelif as “transgender” after her victory over Carini, who withdrew from the match following a powerful punch from Khelif.

The International Olympic Committee clarified that there is no issue concerning the eligibility of female boxers at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

In response to the attacks on Khelif, Algerians launched a widespread solidarity campaign led by celebrities and national football team stars, supporting the boxer amid the controversy.  

*Writing by Mohammad Sio