Double Olympic 800m champion Caster Semenya, 32, has shifted her focus from winning medals to continuing her legal battle against World Athletics. Semenya aims to overturn the requirements set by World Athletics that female athletes with differences in sexual development (DSDs) must medically reduce their testosterone levels. She accuses the organization of discrimination against athletes with hyperandrogenism, a condition defined by higher levels of testosterone that enhance muscle mass and strength. While still engaged in training, Semenya is turning to coaching and maintaining her legal fight to abolish these regulations.
In an interview with Reuters, Semenya stated, “My last chance to win at the Olympics was in 2016 – Paris is not my goal. It is more about winning my battles against the authorities and me fighting for what is right.” Emphasizing that she has already achieved everything she wanted in her running career, Semenya expressed her determination to fight for justice rather than personal competition. She intends to advocate for future generations affected by the same rulings, stating, “This battle will not finish now. We will fight until the end.”
In July, Europe’s top human rights court ruled in favor of Semenya, stating that her appeal to a Swiss Federal Tribunal had not been properly heard after her case was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. However, this decision may still be appealed and does not specifically address the World Athletics regulations. Semenya believes these regulations are a “racial issue,” claiming they only affect individuals with brown skin from Africa and Asia. She questions whether they truly serve the best interests of women’s sports or certain women.
World Athletics denies Semenya’s allegations, asserting that its aim has always been to protect the female category and ensure women and young girls continue to choose sports. They argue that DSD conditions exist worldwide and are usually diagnosed at birth. Challenges in Africa and other developing regions result from limited post-natal monitoring and checks. Efforts are being made in some countries to address this issue.
Overall, Semenya remains dedicated to her fight for what she believes is right, advocating for humanity, inclusivity, and fair treatment of all women in the world. She asserts that the battle against these regulations is not only about her but also about creating a more equitable future for the upcoming generation.
(Writing by Nick Said)
