Story perspectives

Semenya Challenges IOC's Controversial Gender Testing Policy

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Caster Semenya, South Africa's double Olympic champion, plans to challenge the IOC's new gender testing policy.
The policy tests for the SRY gene and would become a universal standard.
Semenya says there is no scientific basis and the policy undermines women's rights.
She has faced eligibility controversy linked to a Difference of Sexual Development (DSD).
She criticized IOC President Kirsty Coventry for inadequate consultation with affected athletes.

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Story summary

Caster Semenya, South Africa's double Olympic champion, plans to challenge the IOC's new gender testing policy.
The policy tests for the SRY gene and would become a universal standard.
Semenya says there is no scientific basis and the policy undermines women's rights.
She has faced eligibility controversy linked to a Difference of Sexual Development (DSD).
She criticized IOC President Kirsty Coventry for inadequate consultation with affected athletes.