Caster Semenya, the two-time Olympic 800-meter gold medalist from South Africa, has officially decided to end her seven-year legal battle over sex eligibility rules in track and field. The announcement was confirmed by her lawyer on October 2, 2025.
Image Source – The Politic
The Background of Semenya’s Case
Semenya has naturally high levels of testosterone, a condition related to Differences in Sex Development (DSD). Since 2019, World Athletics has required female athletes with DSD to lower their testosterone levels in order to compete in certain races, including the 400m to 1-mile events.
Semenya refused to take medication to reduce her testosterone, which meant she could not compete in her preferred events at major competitions. This sparked a long legal battle that involved several courts, including the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the Swiss Federal Tribunal, and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).
In July 2025, the ECHR ruled that Semenya had not received a fair hearing in Switzerland and awarded her €80,000 in legal costs. However, the court did not overturn the existing World Athletics rules.
Semenya’s Decision to Stop Fighting
Despite this favorable ruling, Semenya has chosen not to continue her legal case in Switzerland’s highest court. Her lawyer, Patrick Bracher, said that the case had reached the highest possible court with a positive outcome and will not go further.
Image source – The Independent
Semenya, now 34, has shifted her focus to coaching and mentoring younger athletes. She stated that her legal fight was about protecting the rights of future athletes and ensuring fairness in sport.
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Impact on Sports and Policy
Semenya’s case has highlighted ongoing debates about gender, fairness, and inclusion in sports. Her legal challenge influenced discussions in other sports like swimming, boxing, and athletics, where similar rules and controversies have arisen.
While Semenya may no longer be competing in her signature events, her fight has left a lasting mark on international sports policies. Many experts believe her case will continue to influence how sports organizations handle DSD regulations and gender classifications in the years to come.
Image Source – Aftonbladet
Remembering Caster Semenya
Caster Semenya is not only a world-class athlete but also a symbol of resilience and courage. Her achievements on the track — winning Olympic gold twice and earning multiple world championships — have inspired millions. Even as she moves into coaching and advocacy, her legacy in sports remains powerful and influential.
Semenya’s journey shows the challenges athletes can face when rules and biology intersect, and it continues to spark important conversations about fairness, human rights, and inclusion in global sports.