Imane Khelif, the Algerian gold medalist, is once again the target of absurd hostility. But instead of hiding, she counters with a video on Instagram that goes viral. In it, she presents herself in a decidedly feminine way, completely different to how she does in the ring – and thus sparks discussions again.
Screenshot Instagram / Imane Khelif: Feminine look causes a stir on the internet
While some celebrate her, others insult her in the worst possible way. What is particularly bad is that the discussions about her gender are being reignited, even though it has long been clear that the accusations are baseless.
Imane Khelif’s video making waves
In the video, Khelif is first seen in sporty clothes before suddenly changing into a new, feminine outfit. This transformation has divided the internet: some admire her for her versatility, others see it as a “PR stunt”. But the real scandal is the ongoing hatred that is being poured out on Khelif because she does not bow to some people’s ridiculous ideas about “real femininity”.
Imane Khelif has directly addressed the allegations made against her during the Olympic Games in an Instagram post. In the video, which shows her new feminine look, Khelif writes that she did not waste time on beauty salons or shopping to win her medal and stresses that clothes do not define people. She adds that the discussions about her gender hurt her deeply and the scenario was very frightening for her. Nevertheless, she is grateful that people in Algeria and the Arab world have recognized her femininity, courage and will.
The pictures were taken in an Algerian beauty salon, which is called “beauty.code.officiel“ This is on Instagram HERE.
This Instagram post translates as:
“To win her medal, she didn’t have time to go to beauty salons or go shopping. She never felt the need to conform to those norms to prove herself.
For me, she is always a star, a constant favorite. Since Hassiba Boulmerka, a symbol of my generation, no other sportswoman has caused as much controversy as she has. She is beautiful as a woman and radiant as an Amazonian warrior from the Aurès.
With her change of appearance, Imane has not tried to conform to the stereotypes the world wants to imprison us in. Her message goes much deeper: clothes do not make the monk, and appearance does not reveal the essence of a person. She can be feminine and elegant whenever she wants, but in the ring she does not need adornments or high heels. She only needs strategy, strength and punching power, because that is the core of her character.
Just as a moustache does not define a man – even bugs have one – clothes, hair extensions and make-up do not define a woman. Not all arenas are made for real, passionate athletes like Imane Khelif. The Italian has shown us that even those who cry in the schoolyard and make up lies to steal other people’s food can find themselves in the ring.
Imane is beautiful, not because she is elegant today, but because she has shown us…„
The ridiculous controversy about “true gender”
It’s hard to believe, but Khelif continues to face accusations that she is not a “real” female gender. This absurd claim, backed up by the IBA without any real evidence, has already led to her exclusion from the World Championships. Even though the International Olympic Committee has called these “results” flawed and Khelif deserved her gold medal, the rubbish continues to spread online.
Cyberbullying at the highest level: The lawsuit against Elon Musk and JK Rowling
Khelif is not putting up with this any longer. She has filed a lawsuit for cyberbullying against, among others, Elon Musk and JK Rowling, who fueled the absurd debate with their statements. The accusation: public insults based on gender, discrimination and incitement to hatred. Finally, a woman who has been at the center of a disgusting shitstorm for too long is fighting back. We reported on the lawsuit HERE.
The reactions online: From admiration to hate
While some are celebrating the video as a sign of strength and empowerment, others are using the opportunity to spew even more venom. It turns out that the internet is full of trolls who use every opportunity to spread hate. Particularly outrageous are comments accusing Khelif of fulfilling “female stereotypes” to deceive the public. The madness knows no bounds.
The conclusion: society must change
The debate about Imane Khelif shows how deeply gender prejudices are rooted in our society. Instead of celebrating her achievements, she is confronted with absurd accusations and dragged through the mud. It is high time that we say goodbye to such prejudices and instead see the person behind the facade. Khelif is not only an impressive athlete, but also a woman who refuses to be manipulated. Let us stand together against hatred and for respect and equality!
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Notes: 1) This content reflects the state of affairs that was current at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the matter with the topic.
2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and was carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. (Reason)