PARIS — Princess Reema bint Bandar, the Saudi Ambassador to the United States and a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), delivered a powerful speech during the IOC's Closing Session on Saturday. She began by congratulating the organizing committee and the nation of France for the successful execution of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Princess Reema, who also serves on the Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission, expressed her deep concern about the media's treatment of Algerian boxer Imane Khelif. She stated, "I am a female, a Muslim, an Arab. These are all inextricably linked to my identity. And as such, I cannot serve with good conscience on this committee and remain silent on the media commentary of Imane Khelif." She wholeheartedly supported the Joint Paris 2024 Boxing Unit and IOC Statement made on August 1, 2024, which clarified the facts surrounding Khelif's identity. "Imane Khelif is a woman. She was born a girl, and has lived her entire life as a female," Princess Reema emphasized. She condemned the continuous misreporting on Khelif, calling it "unacceptable" and "heartbreaking." Reflecting on Khelif's journey, Princess Reema highlighted the boxer's determination and resilience, saying, "From her girlhood as the daughter of a loving family in rural Algeria, Imane Khelif has worked her entire life to become an Olympian, competing in front of the world. It is a journey that is filled with determination, grit, and persistence." She expressed her dismay at the attempts to undermine Khelif's womanhood, stating, "Nobody has the right to deny Imane her womanhood. Continuing to push false narratives against her is an attempt to rob her of her dignity and merit." Addressing the broader issue of the treatment of female athletes, Princess Reema called for an end to the criticism and misreporting that women in sports often face. "Women Olympians are elite...they train to be the best of the best - it is a collective failure that we must still have this conversation," she said. She stressed that no athlete should have to justify their existence or be bullied for their appearance, as talent should always eclipse appearance. In a poignant moment, she recalled Khelif's victory in the quarter-final fight, saying, "When Imane won her quarter-final fight and fell to her knees with tears...every woman that has ever felt isolated, been mocked, or been told they did not belong fell with her. And when she rose to stand again...they all rose with her." Princess Reema concluded her speech by urging the public to reflect on the challenges female athletes endure and to treat them with kindness and dignity. She offered her support to all women who have faced unnecessary criticism, encouraging girls everywhere to pursue their dreams in sports. "To every girl who thinks she sits outside what is the norm...If you see a racket, pick it up. If you see a soccer ball, kick it. If you see the track, run...as fast as you can. You have a place here. You are welcome."
