Lin, who clinched gold in the women's boxing final on Sunday, has been embroiled in a heated gender eligibility debate alongside Algerian boxer Imane Khelif. Both athletes faced accusations of having a biological advantage over their competitors, as they were among the first intersex boxers to compete at this level. Despite the intense scrutiny, the 28-year-old Lin remained steadfast, stating that she had "nothing to hide" and that her conscience was clear.

During the celebration, President Lai expressed his gratitude and admiration for Lin, saying, "On behalf of the people, I would like to thank Lin Yu-ting. Your achievements in the boxing ring are remarkable, but it is your grace and high standards off the ring that have truly won the admiration and respect of the people." Lai commended Lin's courage in the face of adversity, noting that she remained unshaken by the attacks and continued to uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship. "You are not afraid of any attack. It's admirable that you still uphold the sportsman's spirit... everyone is proud of you," he added, emphasising the nation's pride in her.

In her speech, Lin expressed her honour and gratitude, thanking "the country and the people" for their unwavering support. The Taiwanese government and public have strongly backed Lin, with local media affectionately dubbing her "Taiwan's daughter." Her victory was celebrated with a "hero's parade" in downtown Taipei, where hundreds of fans cheered as Lin and other Olympic medallists rode in open-top jeeps.

The controversy involving Lin and Khelif has attracted international attention, with figures like Donald Trump and J.K. Rowling commenting on the issue. The International Boxing Association (IBA) had disqualified both athletes from its 2023 World Championships, citing genetic tests that allegedly showed they were biologically male. IBA President Umar Kremlev, known for his Kremlin ties, claimed this gave them a competitive advantage over other female boxers.

However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) defended the athletes, with IOC President Thomas Bach asserting that Lin and Khelif were born and raised as women, and their passports confirm their gender. Neither athlete is known to identify as transgender, and the IOC's support has been unwavering.

Competing under the name Chinese Taipei, Taiwanese athletes delivered a stellar performance at the Paris Games, bringing home seven medals, two golds and five bronzes. This marks the second-best Olympic result in Taiwan's history, and Lin's gold medal has become a powerful symbol of pride and resilience for the nation.