New Delhi, August 21 (HS): Algerian Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif has firmly denied speculation about her retirement, dismissing reports made by her former manager.

Khelif, who clinched gold in the women’s 66kg category at the Paris Olympics, took to social media to set the record straight:

“I want to make it absolutely clear—the news about my retirement is completely false.”

The 26-year-old boxer accused her former manager, Nacer Yefsah, of betrayal and spreading false claims. “This person no longer represents me in any capacity. I have never announced my retirement. I remain fully committed to my boxing career. I am training consistently in Algeria and Qatar, preparing for upcoming competitions,” she stated.

The controversy began after French daily Nice-Matin published remarks from Khelif’s ex-manager on Wednesday, claiming she had stepped away from the sport.

Khelif, however, remains focused on the road ahead, with the World Boxing Championships scheduled from September 4 to 14 in Liverpool. Registration for the event closes on Monday, and the Olympic champion is expected to be among the top contenders.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar