Imane Khelif makes fresh request as Algerian boxer aims to win Olympic gold in women's category

Khelif is already guaranteed a medal having won her opening two fights of the competition, the first of which led to a huge storm.

The International Boxing Association (IBA), who disqualified Khelif during last year's women's world championships, have repeatedly questioned the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for allowing her to compete in Paris.

Khelif and Yu-ting have faced huge backlash for their involvement in women's boxing at the Olympics, despite both boxers fighting in the amateur division for several years.

High-profile figures have made unsubstantiated claims about their gender online with the abuse continuing.

Khelif has now called for an end to the abuse they have both received as its taken its toll.

"I send a message to all the people of the world to uphold the Olympic principles, according to the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes because this thing has effects, massive effects," she said.

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

Khelif was visibly emotional after her win over Luca Hamori to reach the semi-finals of the 66kg category.

She burst into tears after leaving the ring draped by her coaches with huge cheers from the Algerian support inside the arena.

The 25-year-old also said that her family are 'worried' about her as with IOC spokesperson Mark Adams revealing that the two boxers at the centre of the row have faced death threats.

“I am in contact with my family two days a week. I hope that they weren’t affected deeply,” Khelif added.

“They are worried about me. God willing, this crisis will culminate in a gold medal, and that would be the best response.”

She added: "After the media frenzy and after the victory, there was a mix of joy and at the same time, I was greatly affected, because honestly, it wasn’t an easy thing to go through at all," she said.

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"It was something that harms human dignity.”

Khelif's request hasn't been heard by the IBA though, who held a shambolic press conference on Monday where they refused to give any further evidence regarding the gender tests from last year.

There was also contradicting remarks from IBA president Umar Kremlev and the British chief executive Chris Roberts.