Shockwaves are shaking the world of women’s sports and boxing. Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, a rising star and finalist in several international competitions, has been barred from all 2025 women’s world championships after a DNA test revealed she has XY chromosomes, which are biologically male. This test was reportedly requested directly by Elon Musk, according to sources close to the International Boxing Association (IBA).
A revelation that shakes world sport
Imane Khelif, 25, was considered a favorite for the upcoming World Championships and the Olympic Games. However, her career has just taken a dramatic turn. After several rumors about her “physical masculinity,” a full DNA test was reportedly conducted at the urging of Elon Musk, who publicly claims to support “biological integrity in sport.”
The test result revealed that Khelif has XY chromosomes, typically male, meaning she may have an intersex condition called androgen insensitivity. This condition, although rare, means that a person can have a feminine appearance despite having male genetics.
Elon Musk at the heart of the controversy
Elon Musk, already known for his controversial positions on many social issues, said on X (formerly Twitter):
“Women’s competitions must remain feminine. Biological equity is a foundation of sport.”
His statement sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with some accusing him of transphobia and others thanking him for standing up for fair sport.
The IBA president then confirmed that Khelif would no longer be able to compete in the women’s categories, and that a review of the eligibility criteria would soon be implemented for all competitions.
Imane Khelif’s reaction: “It’s a humiliation”
Faced with this decision, Imane Khelif reacted with emotion:
“I was born and raised as a woman. I fought honestly, I never cheated. This decision is a public humiliation. Everything is being taken away from me.”
She also indicated that she would appeal to international sports tribunals, claiming discrimination based on a genetic condition beyond her control.
Feminist and LGBTQ+ movements immediately expressed their support for Khelif, denouncing a witch hunt and an attack on human rights.
An explosive debate rekindled
This scandal has reignited the heated debate over the participation of intersex and transgender people in women’s sports. Several international sports federations are under pressure to revise their rules, which oscillate between inclusion and biological equity.
Similar cases have already made headlines, notably that of Caster Semenya, the South African Olympic champion, who was also excluded from certain competitions for similar reasons.
And now ?
For Imane Khelif, the future is uncertain. While some suggest she could compete in the men’s category, this prospect seems unrealistic, both physically and psychologically.
As for Elon Musk, his direct involvement in this affair once again fuels controversy: is he a defender of sporting fairness or a billionaire overstepping his bounds in international sports affairs?
One thing is certain: the world of boxing, and more broadly of sport, will never be the same again after this affair.
