Olympic champion Imane Khelif speaks on retirement rumours

Algerian boxing star and Olympic champion, Imane Khelif, has dismissed reports that she has retired from the sport.

The 26-year-old, who won gold in the women’s 66kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics, described the claims as “false and malicious.”

In a post on her Facebook page, Khelif accused her former manager, Nasser Yesfah, of betraying her trust.

“This person no longer represents me in any way,” she wrote. “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.”

Earlier on Wednesday, French newspaper Nice Matin quoted Yesfah as saying Khelif had “hung up her gloves,” sparking speculation over her future.

With the World Boxing Championships set for Liverpool from September 4-14, Khelif has until Monday to confirm her entry.