Resilience, determination, and self-belief—that’s how you can sum up the journey of Imane Khelif. The Algerian boxer has become an icon in the Arab world and is slowly redefining the boundaries of womanhood. That’s why Vogue Arabia has made her the star of their latest issue. That’s not all. Inside the issue, as you peel the pages, you get to know the struggles of her early life.

Khelif, 25, took the internet by storm with her victory over Italy’s Angela Carini, who quit the match after 46 seconds. Her victory soon sparked a debate around her gender, which continues to burn even today. However, her Olympic triumph only boosted her boxing credentials and propelled her into stardom, making her struggles and sacrifices worthwhile. She even sold scrap metal and food on the roadside to pay her gym fees.

Khelif, at 46-9, said, “I sold bread on the roadside and collected plastic, aluminum, and iron to save money to get myself to the gym and back… I made sacrifices in many areas–in my personal life, my education. I did everything to reach the top.”

In addition, the Tiaret native disclosed how her coach Mohamed Chaoua always told her that she would be Olympic champion one day. The dream they saw together was realized this year. But it wasn’t without controversies. Many objected to Khelif’s participation in the Olympics, citing her disqualification from the World Championships last year. But the welterweight boxer herself admitted that she wouldn’t have become a champion without such a challenge.

Imane Khelif: fighting inside and outside the ring

In the same Vogue Arabia issue, Khelif shed light on her Paris Olympics experience. She also addressed the situation surrounding her gender at the tournament. She declared, “It was a very difficult experience. Despite winning the gold medal, that one event felt like a whole lifetime. The experiences were multiple and varied within one isolated incident. I was able to overcome it all thanks to my faith in God, in myself, and my dream. Without such challenges, I would never have become a champion.”

Khelif is already looking to start a new chapter in her career, as she recently expressed her desire to turn pro. She declared, “I will soon be entering the world of professional boxing. I have many offers.” The likes of Eddie Hearn have already hinted at welcoming her to their stable. However, given the controversy surrounding her gender, it might again ignite some heated discussions. It remains to be seen when and where Khelif kicks off her pro journey.

What do you make of these struggles of Imane Khelif to fund her gym fees? Do you think you will soon see her donning pro gloves? Let us know in the comments below.