Taiwanese boxing star withdraws from World Cup amid gender eligibility controversy

Taiwanese Olympic boxing champion Lin Yu-ting has withdrawn from the World Boxing Cup Finals in Sheffield, UK, following questions raised about her gender eligibility.

Lin, who faced a similar controversy during the Paris Olympics, opted out of the competition to prevent further distress, Taiwan’s Sports Administration announced.

This was to be Lin’s first international competition since her gold medal victory in Paris, where she competed in the women’s boxing category. World Boxing, the organization hosting the event, reportedly questioned her eligibility, prompting her decision to pull out.

Taiwanese authorities reiterated Lin’s compliance with all gender criteria, pointing out that she had successfully competed in the Paris Olympics. "She is female, meets all eligibility criteria, and won a gold medal in Paris," stated the Sports Administration. They criticized World Boxing’s nascent framework, claiming it lacks robust policies to protect athletes’ rights and ensure confidentiality.

Lin had offered to undergo a thorough medical examination in Britain, but World Boxing declined, citing procedural inadequacies. In response, her coach and Taiwanese officials decided to withdraw to protect her from further harm.

Contrary to Taiwan's claims, World Boxing later clarified that Lin was not officially entered in the competition, attributing the decision to her national federation. A spokesman emphasized the organization’s commitment to athlete welfare, stating, "At World Boxing, we prioritize the safety of athletes and recognize the complexities surrounding gender eligibility."

Lin’s gender was previously called into question during last year’s world championships, organized by the Russian-led International Boxing Association (IBA). The IBA’s president controversially claimed the boxers underwent genetic testing, which was rebuked by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC defended Lin and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, asserting their identities as women, as recognized by their official documentation.

Taiwanese officials, including President Lai Ching-te, have lauded Lin’s achievements, dubbing her "Taiwan’s daughter." The government has pledged to safeguard her rights in future competitions, with Premier Cho Jung-tai affirming their commitment to ensuring her participation on the global stage.

World Boxing is currently working with the IOC to develop comprehensive policies on gender eligibility, as it seeks to assume responsibility for managing the sport at the Olympics.