PARIS — Following the controversy surrounding Algerian boxer Imane Khelif at the Paris Olympics, former President Donald Trump seized the opportunity to incorporate it into the ongoing culture wars in America. Khelif, who faced intense scrutiny and false claims about her gender, secured a gold medal shortly before Trump’s remarks in Montana. Trump, during his rally, incorrectly referred to Khelif as “he” and congratulated her on transitioning from a man to a boxer.
The Olympics have always been intertwined with politics, with the connection dating back to the late 19th century. The Games have often been used as a platform for nations to compete and showcase dominance without resorting to war. This has led to instances where political tensions have impacted the participation and reception of certain countries, such as Germany in 1936 and Russia in 2024.
The Paris Games saw the International Olympic Committee enforcing bans on Russian athletes associated with the military or the Ukrainian invasion, leading to some athletes competing as neutrals. The Olympics in Paris also faced online disinformation campaigns, including a video mocking the event that circulated widely on social media, attributed to groups linked to the Russian government.
Imane Khelif, despite the controversy and online harassment, filed a legal complaint in France. The Paris Olympics were deemed a success, with stunning venues, stellar performances, and enthusiastic spectators returning post-pandemic. Though there were social media calls for boycotting the Olympics, viewership records were set by NBC across all platforms.
The Olympic flag was handed over to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, marking the transition towards the 2028 Games in LA. Organizers from LA noted the importance of observing the Paris Games and learning from the innovative approaches taken by the French. The success of the Paris Olympics has inspired LA organizers to think creatively and take calculated risks for their upcoming event.
