PARIS — Sarah Ourahmoune, who earned a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics, has decided to withdraw her candidacy for the presidency of the French boxing federation. She cited enduring severe racist and sexist abuse as the primary reason for her decision.

In a heartfelt open letter released recently, Ourahmoune expressed her dismay at the intensity of the insults and hateful comments she faced while campaigning for the upcoming election scheduled for next month.

She shared on social media some of the derogatory terms thrown at her, including being labeled “the token Arab” and other deeply offensive remarks. Ourahmoune also mentioned receiving an unprecedented amount of anonymous threats that shocked her profoundly.

She was running in collaboration with the current president, Dominique Nato, as part of a combined effort. Meanwhile, another contender, Estelle Mossely, who is the 2016 Olympic lightweight champion, is also in the running for the position.

Reflecting on her ordeal, Ourahmoune stated, “I never anticipated being victimized in such a manner due to my heritage or simply as a result of being a woman.”

She acknowledged that stepping back from the election has been a significant loss for her, as it seems to contradict her personal principles of bravery, resilience, and fighting against adversity. Ourahmoune emphasizes the importance of striving for equality, diversity, and gender balance in all spheres of life.