Imane Khelif makes feelings clear as controversial Olympics star lashes out amid gender scrutiny

Imane Khelif has made it clear she's disgusted by the criticism she's received amid her performances at the Paris Olympics.

The 25-year-old previously failed a gender eligibility test at the World Boxing Championships last year, with reports suggesting she had high levels of testosterone.

Khelif has been allowed to compete in Paris by the International Olympic Committee, despite the controversy surrounding her participation. And she's now hit back at critics in her first sit-down interview at the games.

Imane Khelif has lashed out at critics at the Paris Olympics REUTERS Speaking to SNTV, she said the scrutiny over her gender was 'harmful to human dignity'. And she also suggested critics were bullying her, saying: "I send a message to all the people of the world to uphold the Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes, because this has effects, massive effects. "It can destroy people, it can kill people's thoughts, spirit and mind. It can divide people. "And because of that, I ask them to refrain from bullying." JUST IN: Graham Thorpe dies aged 55 as tributes to England cricket icon pour in

Khelif says she's concerned about her family and admits the heavy criticism may be impacting them. "I am in contact with my family two days a week. I hope that they weren't affected deeply," continued the 25-year-old. "They are worried about me. "God willing, this crisis will culminate in a gold medal, and that would be the best response." READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo receives 'soul-destroying' message from physiotherapist after struggles at Euro 2024

Imane Khelif has thanked the IOC for letting her compete at the Paris Olympics REUTERS One question Khelif didn't opt to answer was about whether she had undergone tests, other than doping tests. She has been allowed to compete by the IOC despite the International Boxing Association, which has been permanently banned from the Olympics, saying she'd failed gender eligibility tests last year. Khelif is thankful for their support on the subject. "I know that the Olympic Committee has done me justice, and I am happy with this remedy because it shows the truth," she said.

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