A confidential medical report accessed by French journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia disclosed that Khelif has a 5-alpha reductase deficiency, a rare condition typically found in males, leading to the development of internal testicles and an XY chromosome profile. The revelation was first reported on pro-women’s rights news website Reduxx.
Despite these findings, Khelif was allowed to compete in women’s boxing at the Paris Olympics, following an earlier disqualification by the International Boxing Association (IBA) over chromosomal concerns. He won gold in his division.
The medical report, written by expert endocrinologists from hospitals in France and Algeria, outlines that Khelif has no uterus and exhibits male-typical testosterone levels, suggesting that his anatomy aligns more closely with male characteristics.
In short, the report concludes Khelif has XY (male) chromosomes, testicles and a micropenis. It recommended he be referred for “surgical correction and hormone therapy,” to help him physically align with his “self-perceived gender identity”, and adds that psychological support would be required because the results had caused a “very significant neuropsychiatric impact.”
The revelations have sparked backlash from advocates for women’s sports, who argue that Khelif’s participation undermines the integrity of women’s competitions. Critics highlight the lack of chromosomal testing required by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for female athletes, raising questions about policy and fairness in sports.
ICONS, an organisation advocating for fair competition in women’s sports, strongly condemned the IOC’s decision to allow Khelif to compete. Co-founder Marshi Smith has publicly denounced the IOC and the Algerian Olympic Committee, urging leaders to ensure the protection of women’s sports. The controversy has intensified calls for clear guidelines on eligibility for female athletic categories, with advocates demanding accountability from sports governing bodies and stricter enforcement of biological standards to prevent similar controversies in the future.
This article was originally published by the Daily Telegraph NZ.
