EXCLUSIVE: Claressa Shields Comments on Imane Khelif’s Qualification for the 2028 Olympics
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields has chosen to stay out of the ongoing controversy regarding Imane Khelif’s eligibility for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This decision comes after Khelif provided further insights into her biological identity.
At the 2024 Summer Olympics, Khelif secured a gold medal by defeating Yang Liu from China in the women’s welterweight division final. Her triumph ignited significant media attention following reports of her exclusion from the 2023 Women’s World Championships due to a failed gender eligibility test.
In an interview with French media outlet L’Équipe, Khelif confirmed that while she has a female phenotype, she also has the SRY gene which is typically associated with male sexual development. She stated that she has worked with medical professionals to reduce her testosterone levels for competition.
Shields, when approached about Khelif’s situation, expressed that she wouldn’t comment without knowing all the facts. “I know she won an Olympic gold medal, but I don’t really want to speak on something I don’t have clear information about,” she said.
Shields emphasized a division between male and female competitors, stating, “Men should fight against men. Women should fight against women.” Despite her reservations, she wished Khelif well in her boxing career, acknowledging her impactful performance.
Khelif, amidst ongoing scrutiny, continues to affirm her identity as a woman and has vowed not to leave the sport. “What happened during the Olympics caused psychological trauma… I am still fighting. I am still boxing,” she declared, stressing her desire to be understood outside the political sphere.
