Boxer Khalif admitted for the first time that he has male chromosomes
Algerian boxer Imán Khalif found himself at the center of fierce criticism after winning a gold medal in the women's 66 kg category at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. In an interview published on Wednesday, he admitted that he has male hormones and genetic makeup typical of the male sex, but nevertheless considers himself a girl.
Chalíf confirmed that she has the SRY gene located on the Y chromosome, which is associated with male biological characteristics. He also said that before the Olympic qualifying tournament, he underwent hormone treatment to reduce his testosterone levels, which he said he reduced to zero. The entire process was to be carried out under the supervision of doctors and experts.
"I am not a trans woman. I was raised as a girl, and that's how people in my village know me," said the boxer.
Khalif is prepared to undergo mandatory gender testing introduced by the World Boxing Organization and plans to compete in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
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