Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has called for an end to "bullying athletes", after admitting she has been greatly affected by misconceptions about her gender.

Khelif, who secured a victory in the 66kg quarter-final against Anna Luca Hamori at the Olympics earlier this week, reckons such reports can destroy athletes.

"I send a message to all the people of the world to uphold the Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes, because this has effects, massive effects," She's quoted by Itv to have said.

"It can destroy people, it can kill people’s thoughts, spirit and mind. It can divide people."

Khelif also reflected on her previous encounters with boxer Angela Carini, whom she defeated in their match on 1st August.

"The Italian boxer has known me for a long time. I have been visiting Italy for years for my training camps, particularly in Assisi. The coaches there have known me since I was young, and I used to train with them. Carini herself knew me well from our training sessions in Assisi,” Khelif revealed.

“They tried to use the media campaign against me to their advantage, but I remain focused on my goal.

“My focus is on the Olympics. Today, I am in the semi-finals. With God’s help, I will rise to the challenge and advance to the next stages,” she asserted.

For those not closely following the 2024 Olympics, Khelif’s match against Carini ended abruptly in just 46 seconds when Carini withdrew.

The incident fuelled rumours about Khelif's eligibility due to a gender discrepancy, which was later clarified by the International Olympic Committee.

“The Algerian boxer was born female, was registered female, lived her life as a female, boxed as a female, and holds a female passport,” said IOC spokesperson Mark Adams.

Khelif will face Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng in the semi-finals. A win will guarantee her at least a silver medal in the Olympics.