
JK Rowling, the famous author and advocate for women’s rights, has strongly condemned the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for allowing a biological male to compete in the women’s boxing category at the Paris Olympics. The controversy erupted after Angela Carini was forced to concede her bout against Imane Khelif due to Khelif’s overwhelming physical strength.
Taking to X, Rowling shared video footage of the fight, urging her followers to watch and understand the injustice. “Watch this (whole thread), then explain why you’re OK with a man beating a woman in public for your entertainment. This isn’t sport,” she wrote.
Khelif, who possesses XY chromosomes, was previously barred from the Delhi world championships for failing a sex test. Despite this, the IOC permitted Khelif to compete in Paris, a decision that has drawn significant backlash. Reports indicate that Khelif might have a disorder of sex development (DSD), adding complexity to the situation.
Rowling highlighted Telegraph writer Suzanne Moore’s argument, which suggests that individuals with DSD should abstain from competing in women’s sports to maintain fairness. “They can choose not to cheat; they can choose not to take medals from women; they can choose not to cause injury,” Rowling emphasized.
Supporting the “#IStandWithAngelaCarini” campaign by athlete Riley Gaines, Rowling also criticized IOC Safe Sport Unit head Kirsty Burrows. “A young female boxer has just had everything she’s worked and trained for snatched away because you allowed a male to get in the ring with her,” Rowling declared. “You’re a disgrace, your ‘safeguarding’ is a joke and #Paris24 will be forever tarnished by the brutal injustice done to Carini.”
Olympic medalist Sharron Davies added her voice to the criticism, pointing out the inherent unfairness of allowing chromosomally male athletes to compete against females. “Testosterone levels are an utter red herring in all of this,” Davies stated, noting the biological advantages these athletes possess.
Carini, who was visibly distressed and injured after the bout, expressed her frustration, saying, “It’s not fair.” The debate over the inclusion of biological males in women’s sports continues, raising important questions about fairness and safety in athletic competitions.