Imane Khelif has declared that the ‘future is bright’ after receiving a hero’s welcome in Algeria following her gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
The 25-year-old was allowed to compete by the International Olympic Committee despite the International Boxing Association alleging she had failed gender eligibility tests at the World Boxing Championships last year.
Khelif faced immense scrutiny as she won gold and, on Saturday, was given a hero’s welcome by hordes of adoring fans.
She showed off her gold medal in a bus parade around her home city of Tiaret, with Khelif basking in the adoration of her supporters.
Imane Khelif has declared that the ‘future is bright’ after receiving a hero’s welcome in Algeria following her gold medal at the Paris Olympics
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Khelif has written on Instagram to thank those who turned out to see her.
And she also insists the future is ‘bright’, with the boxer saying: “The height of pride and honour is in representing your country and raising its flag high.
“It is an even greater joy to share that pride with your family, loved ones, and community.
“The warm welcome I received in the streets of Tiaret and Biban Misbah, and the overwhelming feelings of love and support, will stay in my heart forever.
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“From the bottom of my heart, thank you all. Thank you, Tiaret. Thank you, Algeria. Thank you to all Arabs, and to everyone who supported me and stood by me.
“The future is bright, Inshallah.”
Fans on social media have got behind Khelif and sent messages of support to the 25-year-old.
“Much support from this Canadian. I watched all your fights and rooted for you all the way,” wrote one user.
A second said: “Best revenge ever. Congratulations and I hope that you crumble all those who tried to ruin your success with lies. They will learn (the hard way).”
A third stated: “I am literally crying right now she deserves all the best.”
Another said: “I’ve never felt more happier for another human being. You go girl.”
And a fifth said: “Love and support from England! You are an inspiration for women and girls everywhere.”
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It is currently unclear what the future holds for Khelif following her gold medal.
But boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, speaking earlier this week, said he was open to giving the 25-year-old a professional contract.
“Yes, if the facts were laid out and it was in a position where there is no reason why this individual shouldn’t compete as a female,” he told IFL TV when asked if that was possible.
“Yes, I would, commercially. One, she is a talented fighter. Two, commercially I think she has up to two Instagram million followers, up from 30,000, so the answer is yes.
Imane Khelif was given a hero’s welcome by the people of Algeria after her gold medal triumph at the Paris Olympics
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“But there is probably facts that we don’t know are true around the situation.
“But if a fighter was deemed, you know, female with no physical advantages, but again we hear about X/Y chromosomes, and I haven’t seen anything, I’ve just seen someone say: ‘We’ve done this test.’
“Do we get to see it? Or are we just going to believe that narrative?
“It’s not ever one that I’d ever go: ‘I’m not getting involved in this conversation. It’s a topical conversation.’”