Gender row boxer Imane Khelif shows off dramatic new look after more than a year without returning to ring
The Algerian, 26, won her nation's first ever gold medal in women's boxing in the welterweight category at the Paris Olympics last summer.
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However, she was at the centre of a huge gender eligibility storm.
It emerged that Khelif had been banned from fighting in competitions by the International Boxing Association in 2023 after tests allegedly showed her to have DNA of a male.
But the International Olympic Committee allowed her to compete in Paris because of her female passport status after replacing the Russian-led IBA, who were stripped of recognition by the IOC in a row over ethics and financial management.
The controversy sparked a huge debate, with Khelif being subjected to a barrage of abuse and accusations, including from the likes of Elon Musk and JK Rowling.
Changes have come into play since then, with the new governing body, World Boxing, confirming fighters will be required to undergo mandatory sex screening to compete in their events.
Khelif has not stepped into the ring since her Paris victory over Lui Yang on August 9.
However, earlier this week Khelif was seen sporting a remarkable new look.
On Tuesday she took a selfie alongside television host podcaster Nassima Djaffar Bey.
Khelif was seen beaming in the photo, appearing with makeup and flowing hair.
Djaffar Bey shared the photo to her Instagram story and captioning the post: "Always a pleasure."
New Gender Testing Rule for Female Athletes at World Athletics Championships
On the one-year anniversary of winning her Olympic gold, Khelif shared a cryptic Instagram post as she reflected on the "difficult phase" she was going through.
Khelif said: "It was an unforgettable moment a moment where my tears mixed with the awe of pride, a moment where my country's flag soared high, and I held my head up with the strength of a boxer and the heart of a human.
"Today, on the anniversary of that triumph, I'm going through a difficult phase filled with challenges, silence, and waiting…
"But despite everything, the spirit that fought for gold still beats within me. I still believe that every fall is a prelude to a stronger rise, and that every delay carries within it a test of faith and willpower.
"True strength lies not only in victory, but in perseverance against all odds. I am Imane Khelif a champion yesterday, resilient today, and determined to return tomorrow.
"Thank you to everyone who still believes in me… And to myself, thank you for never giving up."
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