Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif has shocked her fans and critics after unveiling a dramatic new look on social media this week.
The 26-year-old won Algeria’s first ever Olympic gold medal in women’s boxing last summer.
Khelif’s journey to gold was marred by a huge media storm over her eligibility for the women’s event.
The welterweight boxer had been banned from fighting in competitions by the International Boxing Association back in 2023, after tests alleged she had the DNA of a male.
The International Olympic Committee, who took over the running of the boxing event at the Olympics, allowed Khelif to compete, citing her female passport status.
Khelif went on to claim the gold medal, while a massive debate erupted on social media.
Changes have since been made, with new governing body World Boxing requiring fighters to undergo mandatory sex screening before events.
Khelif shocks fans with new look
Khelif has not boxed since claiming her gold medal in Paris against Lui Yang.
However, the Algerian hit the headlines again on Tuesday after posting a selfie with television host Nassima Djaffar Bey.
The boxer can be seen in the photo with makeup and flowing hair – a dramatic new look for the fighter.
Olympic boxer Imane Khelif shows off the results of ‘feminine’ makeover.
The Algerian boxer has debuted a dramatic new look after sparking global outcry for winning gold in women’s boxing at the Olympics, despite tests revealing Khelif has male chromosomes.
In June, a leaked… pic.twitter.com/KGxQWTDrxC
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) August 22, 2025
Olympic champion opens up on ‘difficult phase’
On the one-year anniversary of her gold medal win, Khelif took to social media to share her thoughts.
The boxer admitted she is going through a ‘difficult phase’, and thanked her fans for support.
Writing on Instagram, she said: “It was an unforgettable moment a moment where my tears mixed with the awe of pride, a moment where my country’s flag soared high, and I held my head up with the strength of a boxer and the heart of a human.
“Today, on the anniversary of that triumph, I’m going through a difficult phase filled with challenges, silence, and waiting…
“But despite everything, the spirit that fought for gold still beats within me.
“I still believe that every fall is a prelude to a stronger rise, and that every delay carries within it a test of faith and willpower.
“True strength lies not only in victory, but in perseverance against all odds.
“I am Imane Khelif a champion yesterday, resilient today, and determined to return tomorrow.
“Thank you to everyone who still believes in me… And to myself, thank you for never giving up.”
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