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As a woman of belief and principle, Her Royal Highness Princess Reema Bint Bandar Al Saud has broken her silence on the recent controversy about equality and identity in the Olympics.
In a time where misleading information tried to deter one’s sportsmanship and womanhood, HRH Princess Reema stood among other delegates not only as an IOC member, but also as a representative of the Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission to express her deep concern about the misinformation in the media.
During the closing session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Paris, Princess Reema delivered a powerful message on identity, with a particular focus on defending Algerian boxer and gold medalist, Imane Khelif who has been scrutinised over claims of questioning her gender.
“I am a female, a Muslim, and an Arab woman. These aspects are inextricably linked to my identity,” she declared. “As such, I cannot serve with good conscience on this committee and remain silent on the media commentary on Imane Khelif.”
In a show of solidarity with the boxer, she expressed her gratitude to the Joint Paris 2024 Boxing Unit and the IOC for clarifying the facts surrounding the gold medalist. However, she was resolute in her stance, stating, “From my point of view, the facts are clear. Imane Khelif is a woman; she was born a girl and has lived her entire life as a female.”
Expressing her concern for the athlete, she further condemned the continuous false reporting. “The incorrect information has caused immeasurable pain,” she asserted, underscoring that such developments are “unacceptable.”
Reflecting on Imane’s journey as a professional boxer, Princess Reema praised her determination and resilience. From humble beginnings to her rise as an Olympian, the Princess remarked, “She has worked her entire life to become an Olympian.”
In response to attempts to question Imane’s identity, she declared, “No one has the right to deny Imane her womanhood.”
She continued to highlight that pushing false narratives strips the athlete of her dignity and merit as an Olympian. “This cannot continue. Women Olympians are elite; they train to be the best of the best, and it is a collective failure that we still have to have this conversation.”
The Princess also acknowledged Imane’s quarter-final victory and continued to express her support for both the athlete and the IOC. She thanked the committee for their “bold statements” and extended her support to every woman who has faced unwarranted criticism during what should have been their moment of triumph.
As she concluded her address, Princess Reema reflected on the challenges women in sports continue to endure, urging the collective society to embrace kindness.
“To the general public: your words matter, and our behaviour matters,” she affirmed in her closing remarks.
