Imane Khelif, the Algerian Olympic boxing champion, denies reports of her retirement. She dismisses claims made by her former manager as false. Khelif affirms her commitment to boxing and ongoing training. She aims to represent Algeria in future international competitions. The World Championships in Liverpool are scheduled soon. Khelif's participation is uncertain as the deadline approaches.
APImane Khelif's denial comes just weeks before the World Championships in Liverpool, scheduled for September 4–14. (AP Photo)
Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif on Wednesday refuted claims from her former manager suggesting she was stepping away from the sport. Khelif, who claimed gold in the women’s 66kg division at the Paris Games and found herself at the center of a gender controversy during the tournament, made it clear she has not put her career on hold.
Earlier in the day, French outlet Nice Matin quoted her former manager as saying Khelif had 'hung up her gloves', though it was unclear whether the comments implied a temporary pause or a full retirement.
"I would like to make it clear to the public that the reports of my retirement from boxing are false," the 26-year-old Khelif wrote on her Facebook page.
She accused her former manager, Nasser Yesfah, of "betraying (her) trust and (her) country with his false and malicious statements".
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"This person no longer represents me in any way," Khelif said.
"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."
"Such rumors are spreading only to disrupt and insult my athletic and professional career. I will always remain loyal to the sport of boxing and my homeland Algeria, and this false news will not deter me from continuing to defend and honor the colors of my country in international concerts, Khelif concluded.
Her denial comes just weeks before the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, scheduled for September 4–14. With the entry deadline approaching on Monday, Khelif’s participation remains a key question as she looks to build on her Olympic success.
AP
