The Algerian boxer is in Doha for a training camp in Aspire Academy and is looking to clinch her maiden World Championship.
Imane Khelif will undergo a 22-day long training camp at Doha’s Aspire Academy as part of her preparations for the World Boxing Championships 2025 in September.
The training, set to take place from March 7 to 29, will include an “intensive” routine aimed at enhancing Khelif’s technique and strength, according to a press conference held on Thursday.
The 25-year-old shot to fame following an impressive gold medal-winning campaign in the Paris Olympics last year, weathering online misinformation over her gender and eligibility to compete.
She is now eyeing maiden gold at the World Championships, which will be held in Liverpool later this year, bettering her silver at the 2022 competition in Istanbul.
“I chose to prepare in Doha and Aspire Academy because all the facilities are available here and this will allow me to prepare well,” Khelif said at the press conference jointly organised by Aspire Academy, Kotinos – Aspire Sports Consulting and Management company, and the Qatar Boxing Federation.
“I deeply appreciate the incredible support I have received, especially during the holy month of Ramadan,” she added.
“This experience is unlike any other, allowing me to elevate my journey in the sport further and proudly represent Arab women in boxing.”
‘Great inspiration’
The Aspire Academy will provide the Algerian boxer with the “best possible support” to fulfill her goals in the September tournament, Deputy Director General Ali Salem Afifa told Doha News.
“We hope the facilities and resources that Aspire has can help [Khelif] in enhancing the aspects that she wants to work on,” Afifa said.
Hosting a high-profile figure like Khelif, who has the potential to stay at the top, will serve as a seminal moment for young athletes in Qatar, according to Qatar Boxing Federation President Sheikh Fahad bin Khalid Al Thani.
“One of the major factors in making it as an athlete is believing in yourself,” Sheikh Fahad told Doha News. “Having someone like her will give our local athletes great inspiration, to learn from her and the steps she has taken to get to that level.”
Victory inside and outside of the ring
The three-week long camp in Doha will be a rare opportunity for Khelif to focus purely on her boxing, having had to deal with off-the-ring affairs in recent months.
Responding to a lawsuit filed by International Boxing Association against the International Olympic Committee last month regarding her Olympic win in the 66kg category, Khelif said she is ready to remain resolute in the face of any obstacle.
“I have earned my place, and I will continue to stand firm in the face of any challenge,” Khelif said in a statement posted on Instagram.
The Algerian has been subject to multiple abuses and an online misinformation campaign over her eligibility after an opponent backed out after just 46 seconds at the Paris Olympics. Khelif has adamantly pursued legal actions against perpetrators of online abuse.
“For two years, I have taken the high road while my name and image have been used, unauthorised, to further personal and political agendas through the spreading and dissemination of baseless lies and misinformation. But silence is no longer an option,” she said last month.
She reiterated that stance at the press conference on Thursday, emphasising that the focus will always be on delivering strong in-ring performances, alongside the challenges faced outside the ring.
“My goal is to continue to shine in the various upcoming challenges and win more titles,” Khelif stated.
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