Saudi Ambassador to the United States, Princess Reema bint Bandar, has voiced her support for Algerian boxer Imane Khelif. Khelif won a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics but faced skepticism and misinformation about her gender.
During the early stages of the competition, critics questioned Khelif’s gender identity. Despite the intense scrutiny, Khelif persevered and ultimately claimed the gold medal. Her victory brought the controversy to the forefront, sparking widespread debate.
In the final session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Princess Reema addressed the issue. She expressed pride in her role on the IOC and its Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee. As a Muslim and Arab woman, she felt compelled to speak out against the misinformation surrounding Khelif.
Princess Reema endorsed the IOC and the Boxing Unit of the 2024 Paris Olympics’ joint statement. Released on August 1, 2024, the statement defended Khelif and confirmed that she is a female. “The facts are clear,” Princess Reema stated. “Imane Khelif is a woman who was born female and has lived her entire life as a woman.”
Princess Reema highlighted Khelif’s journey, noting her childhood in rural Algeria and her relentless pursuit to become an Olympic athlete. She praised Khelif for embodying the determination and perseverance that define exceptional Olympians.
Condemnation of False Claims
Princess Reema condemned the ongoing spread of false claims and misinformation, which have caused Khelif significant pain. “No one has the right to deny Iman’s womanhood or spread false information,” she asserted. Princess Reema viewed these efforts as attempts to strip Khelif of her dignity and worthiness.
As an IOC member, I offer my full support to every female who has been subjected to unnecessary criticism in what should be their time to shine. @IOCMedia #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/7Ja703nq4x
— Reema Bandar Al-Saud (@rbalsaud) August 10, 2024
The Saudi ambassador emphasized the need to end the debate about gender identity among elite athletes. She urged a shift in focus towards athletes’ performance rather than questioning their existence. Silence from female athletes, Princess Reema noted, is often misinterpreted as acceptance of false narratives or weakness. Speaking out, however, is seen as defensive.
Embracing Diversity
Princess Reema called on athletes to focus on their performance rather than justifying their presence. She stressed that no athlete should endure bullying or ridicule based on their appearance. Their achievements, the result of lifelong training, sacrifice, and commitment, should not be weaponized against them.
Princess Reema also underscored the Olympics as a celebration of diversity. She highlighted that while every woman in sports is unique, their shared determination to reach the pinnacle unites them.
Reflecting on the moment when Khelif fell to her knees in tears after winning the quarterfinals, Princess Reema remarked, “Every woman who has ever felt isolated, ridiculed, or told she doesn’t belong fell with her. And when Iman stood again, they all stood with her.”
Encouragement for Future Female Athletes
Princess Reema concluded by expressing her full support for women facing unjust criticism. She urged everyone to consider the experiences of female athletes and the impact of their words and actions. “Compassion and dignity must prevail every time,” she said.
Princess Reema encouraged young girls to engage in sports, saying, “To every girl who thinks she doesn’t fit in, if you see a racket, pick it up. If you see a football, kick it. If you see a track, run as fast as you can. You have a place here, and you are welcome.”
