Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer embroiled in a gender eligibility controversy, has triumphed to reach the finals of the women’s 66kg boxing event at the Paris Olympics. Despite enduring online harassment and accusations about competing in the wrong category, Khelif won her semifinal match against Thai boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng, earning a spot in the final on August 9.

Khelif, who had previously been emotional after her quarter-final victory due to the intense pressure, was warmly celebrated by a supportive crowd waving Algerian flags.

Read more: Boxer Imane Khelif Calls For an End to Bullying in the Olympics

In her post-victory interview with SNTV, Khelif discussed the impact of the controversy on her and her family, condemned the online abuse she has faced, and emphasized the importance of adhering to Olympic principles.

IOC President Thomas Bach has defended Khelif’s right to compete, asserting that she was born and raised as a woman and is listed as such on her passport. He described the controversy as a “politically motivated cultural war” and denounced the hate speech against Khelif.

The International Boxing Association (IBA), which has been banned from the Olympics due to ties with the Kremlin and other issues, disputes the IOC’s position, citing tests that showed elevated testosterone levels and XY chromosomes in Khelif. Bach suggested that the IBA’s actions reflect a broader agenda against the IOC.

Undeterred by the controversy, Khelif remains committed to her Olympic goals, determined to win gold and use her platform to fight against bullying and advocate for fairness in sports.