Olympic Champion Imane Khelif Files Cyber Harassment Lawsuit Against J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk

Algerian Olympic boxing gold medalist Imane Khelif has taken legal action against high-profile figures J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk, alleging severe cyber harassment. The criminal complaint, filed with French authorities, accuses both individuals of engaging in “aggravated cyber harassment” directed at Khelif.

Nabil Boudi, Khelif's Paris-based attorney, confirmed to Variety that Rowling and Musk are specifically mentioned in the complaint submitted to the Paris Prosecutor’s Office’s anti-online hatred center on Friday.

The Paris Prosecutor’s Office, also known as the National Center for the Fight Against Online Hatred, has acknowledged receipt of Khelif’s complaint and announced the initiation of an investigation. According to a statement from the center, the investigation will cover allegations of cyber harassment, gender-based public insults, and incitement to discrimination.

The lawsuit, filed under French law against the platform X (formerly Twitter), targets unidentified individuals responsible for the harassment, allowing the prosecution to investigate all potential suspects, including those using pseudonyms. Notably, the complaint mentions controversial figures such as Rowling and Musk.

Boudi explained that while specific names are cited, the investigation aims to encompass all relevant parties. “J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk are named, among others,” he stated, adding that former President Donald Trump is also under scrutiny due to his public statements supporting similar sentiments.

Khelif, who secured the Olympic gold in the women’s 66-kilogram boxing category, faced intense scrutiny and abuse during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite clear backing from the International Olympic Committee, Khelif encountered widespread criticism regarding her gender, fueled by high-profile individuals on social media. Rowling shared a post questioning Khelif's gender, while Musk endorsed a message suggesting that “men don’t belong in women’s sports.” Trump also shared a contentious post regarding the fight.

Boudi emphasized that the complaint is directed at the individuals who posted derogatory content, not the social media platforms themselves. He noted that cyber harassment cases are increasingly being taken seriously, with some leading to prison sentences.

Khelif’s coach, Pedro Diaz, reflected on the negative impact of the online abuse, stating that it significantly affected Khelif’s focus and performance. Diaz, who began coaching Khelif in February 2023, described the experience as "disgusting" and praised Khelif’s resilience and motivation.

The complaint filed by Khelif is part of a broader wave of investigations into online harassment during the Paris Olympics. Other notable figures, including Thomas Jolly, Barbara Butch, and Nicky Doll, have also reported similar threats and insults.

This legal action highlights the increasing recognition and response to online harassment, with judicial authorities now more actively pursuing cases of cyber abuse.

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