General

Caster Semenya can keep her gold

Results of gender testing on South African runner to be kept under wraps

After Caster Semenya’s gender became the topic of public debate, it appears the truth about whether the 18-year-old South African sprinter is a man or a woman is none of our business. The International Association of Athletics Federations has decided to allow Semenya to keep her 800-metre world championship title and prize money, but the results of gender tests will be kept confidential. According to the South African sports ministry, “There will be no public announcement of what the panel of scientists has found. We urge all South Africans and other people to respect this professional ethical and moral way of doing things.” Questions about Semenya’s gender were raised after the runner’s muscular build and rapid improvement in times prompted the IAFF to order testing. The IAAF has refused to confirm or deny reports that surfaced in Australian newspapers in September that Semenya had both male and female sex organs.

NYT

Looking for more?

Get the Best of Maclean's sent straight to your inbox. Sign up for news, commentary and analysis.
  • By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.