Caster Semenya court victory 'win for gender equality'

The double Olympic champion won her appeal after challenging testosterone regulations mandated by the international governing body for athletics.

 

Semenya had approached the court in 2021 after losing her appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport and Switzerland's Supreme Court.

 

She's been challenging the ruling that requires female athletes with high testosterone levels to take medication.

 

SAHRC commissioner Andre Gaum says this was also a milestone for them as it was the first time they were involved in international human rights litigation.

 

 "This engagement of the commission marked a significant milestone in its work regarding gender equality."

 

National Sports Department spokesperson Litha Mpondawana says Semenya's win vindicates her fight for her dignity. 

 READ: Caster Semenya wins appeal at European rights court

"While the fight for Caster to have her racing in her favourite racing events continues, the ruling by the European Court of Human Rights is a clear statement of how Caster has faced discrimination in the fight against the offensive regulations she has been subjected to."

 

Amnesty International's Genevieve Quintal has also welcomed the important win for the athlete. 

 

"The unfair discrimination against Caster Semenya and other female athletes cannot be tolerated. Everyone has the right to bodily integrity and equality. The court's decision is a win for human rights, sports and beyond."