Imane Khelif says she “doesn’t care” about the controversy swirling over her inclusion in the Paris Olympics boxing after storming into her gold-medal match with a unanimous points win over Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng.

Hundreds of flag-waving Algerian supporters turned the normally genteel surroundings of Philippe-Chatrier Court at Roland Garros into a cauldron of noise on Tuesday (local time) in support of Khelif, who has been at the centre of a gender eligibility row.

“I don’t care what anyone is saying about me with the controversy,” Khelif said afterwards.

“All that is important to me is that I stay on the level and give my people the performance they deserve. I know I’m a talented person and this is a gift to all Algerians.”

Chants of “Imane” tumbled down from the stands as Khelif, who is one of two boxers caught up in the ongoing row, dominated Suwannapheng to confirm she will get the chance to emulate compatriot Hocine Soltani, who won lightweight gold in 1996.

The participation of Khelif and Chinese Taipei featherweight Lin Yu-ting has caused an international storm since Khelif beat Angela Carini of Italy in just 46 seconds in their opening bout in the 66-kilogram class last Thursday.

Khelif and Lin both fought at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. There was no controversy at the time and neither won a medal.

But they were disqualified by the International Boxing Association at last year’s World Championships for failing to meet gender eligibility criteria.

However, the IBA, which was expelled by the International Olympic Committee over financial and corruption concerns, has failed to provide any proof of its findings.

On Monday, an IBA press conference descended into farce as controversial president Umar Kremlev made baseless claims about Lin and Khelif and launched an astonishing tirade against IOC president Thomas Bach.

Khelif and Lin were allowed to return to competition by the IOC, which is effectively administering the Paris 2024 boxing tournament in the IBA’s absence.

Lin will fight in the semi-finals of the women’s 57-kilogram division later on Wednesday.

Khelif addressed the controversy for the first time earlier this week, urging an end to the bullying.

“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 said in an interview with SNTV, according to the Associated Press.

“It can destroy people, it can kill people’s thoughts, spirit and mind. It can divide people. And because of that, I ask them to refrain from bullying.”

She said she didn’t care about opinions.

“I came here for a medal, and to compete for a medal. I will certainly be competing to improve [and] be better, and God willing, I will improve, like every other athlete,” she said.

The case has aroused global interest, with figures such as former US president Donald Trump and Harry Potter author JK Rowling weighing in on the issue.

Khelif won every round on the judges’ cards on Tuesday, appearing close to securing a stoppage at times. She celebrated with a victory jig in the ring as the Algerian supporters cheered wildly.

-with AAP