Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has filed a criminal complaint with French authorities, naming J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk among others, for alleged cyberbullying. The complaint, which was submitted to the Paris Prosecutor’s Office on Friday, accuses the high-profile figures of “aggravated cyber harassment” following Khelif’s victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Imand Khelif at Paris 2024 Olympic, Roland-Garros Stadium, Paris. August 9, 2024. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / AFP)
Nabil Boudi, Khelif’s attorney, confirmed that the lawsuit had been filed and that it mentions both Rowling and Musk. The complaint, aimed at the anti-online hatred center of the Paris Prosecutor’s Office, prompted an investigation into cyber harassment, public insults, and incitement to discrimination based on gender and origin.
The lawsuit is filed against “X,” meaning it targets unknown individuals, allowing the prosecution to investigate anyone involved, including those using pseudonyms. Boudi mentioned that while the lawsuit explicitly names Rowling and Musk, former U.S. President Donald Trump is also likely to be scrutinized as part of the investigation due to his social media activity.
The controversy surrounding Khelif began after she won the Olympic gold medal in the women’s 66 kg boxing category. Despite being born female and not identifying as transgender, Khelif faced a barrage of accusations questioning her gender. These attacks intensified on social media, with figures like Rowling and Musk amplifying the claims. Rowling accused Khelif of being a man who had harmed a female opponent.
The idea that those objecting to a male punching a female in the name of sport are objecting because they believe Khelif to be ‘trans’ is a joke. We object because we saw a male punching a female. https://t.co/KSAM5RCl1S
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) August 2, 2024
While Musk supported a post stating that “men don’t belong in women’s sports.” Trump also weighed in, promising to “keep men out of women’s sports.”
What’s next:
While some involved, like Logan Paul, later retracted their statements, Khelif’s legal team emphasized that the lawsuit would proceed regardless of apologies. Boudi highlighted that this case is one of several investigations related to cyber harassment during the Paris Olympics. Khelif’s coach, Pedro Diaz, revealed that the online abuse had significantly impacted her and everyone around her, yet she remained focused on winning the gold medal.
The complaint, though filed in France, could extend its reach internationally, as authorities consider cross-border cooperation to hold all responsible parties accountable.
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