Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif rejects claims of retirement

Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif has dismissed reports suggesting she is stepping away from the sport, calling the claims fabricated and damaging.

Khelif, who won gold in the women’s 66kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, was forced to address rumors after French outlet Nice Matin quoted her former manager as saying she had retired. The comments sparked widespread speculation over her future.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the 26-year-old athlete said, "I would like to make it clear to the public that the reports of my retirement from boxing are false."

She went on to accuse her ex-manager, Nasser Yesfah, of spreading lies, "He has betrayed my trust and my country with his false and malicious statements. This person no longer represents me in any way."

Khelif reiterated her commitment to the sport, insisting that she continues to train actively both in Algeria and Qatar, "I have never announced my retirement from boxing. I remain committed to my sporting career, I train regularly, and I maintain my physical condition between Algeria and Qatar in preparation for upcoming events."

The boxer, who was at the center of a gender eligibility controversy during the Paris Olympics, now faces a packed schedule ahead. The World Boxing Championships are scheduled for September 4–14 in Liverpool, with the entry deadline fast approaching next week.