Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has sued Elon Musk, J.K. Rowling, and others for cyber harassment after her Paris Olympics win sparked controversy. Khelif's legal action, filed in France, targets online abuse related to her gender and participation in women's boxing, highlighting ongoing debates about gender in sports.
Algerian Olympic boxer Imane Khelif has filed a lawsuit in France against notable figures including Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling, alleging aggravated cyber harassment. The lawsuit, submitted to the anti-online hatred division of the public prosecutor’s office, follows a wave of online abuse directed at Khelif after her victory at the Paris Olympics.
Nabil Boudi, Khelif’s lawyer based in Paris, revealed that the legal action targets Musk’s social media platform X, as well as Rowling, among others. The complaint allows for the investigation of all involved, including those who used pseudonyms to send hateful messages. Boudi emphasized that this lawsuit represents Khelif’s quest for justice and respect amid the controversy surrounding her participation in the women’s boxing category.
Khelif, who won a gold medal in the women’s 66-kilogram boxing event, has been subject to intense scrutiny over her gender. She was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships due to gender eligibility issues but competed successfully in the Olympics. Following her win, she faced harsh criticism from some public figures, including Musk and Rowling, who questioned her eligibility and criticized her participation.
The lawsuit also includes former President Donald Trump, who has publicly voiced opposition to men competing in women’s sports. In France, penalties for cyber harassment can range from two to five years in prison and substantial fines, with higher fines applicable for online hate speech. The case highlights ongoing debates about gender, sports, and online harassment.
