South African athletics legend Caster Semenya has ruled out working with Athletics South Africa (ASA) and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC), accusing sporting authorities of betraying her and failing to protect her.
Speaking to SABC Sport on the sidelines of the SPAR Grand Prix awards in Johannesburg on Tuesday, November 10, the two-time Olympic 800m champion reportedly dismissed the possibility of joining ASA’s leadership or becoming an ambassador for a potential South African Olympic Games bid.
Semenya made it clear that she no longer trusts the country’s sporting establishment and has no intention of returning to its leadership structures.
“I don’t see myself sitting at a table with an enemy,” she said, expressing her frustration with organisations she believes failed her during her career.
The 35-year-old’s strained relationship with athletics authorities stems from her long-running battle with World Athletics over regulations governing athletes with differences of sex development (DSD).
The regulations require certain athletes to lower their testosterone levels to compete in specified women’s events. Semenya refused to take medication to reduce her testosterone levels and challenged the rules through international sporting and legal institutions.
Her fight became one of the most prominent controversies in international athletics, raising questions about athletes’ rights, dignity and equality in sport.
Although ASA supported aspects of her legal battle, Semenya’s latest remarks suggest that her experiences have left her unwilling to work within the established sporting structures.
Rather than pursuing an administrative position, the former world champion is concentrating on coaching and developing the next generation of South African athletes.
She has identified Masai Athletics Club and the Caster Semenya Foundation as her priorities, using her experience to mentor athletes and create opportunities for young people.
Semenya has also been involved in coaching South African distance-running star Glenrose Xaba, who recently secured a record fourth SPAR Women’s 10km Grand Prix series title.
Her shift towards coaching represents a new chapter in her athletics career, allowing her to contribute to the sport without returning to the competitive environment that defined much of her professional life.
Semenya’s refusal to become an ambassador for a possible South African Olympic Games bid could also be a setback for organisers seeking the support of the country’s most recognisable Olympic champions.
For now, the Olympic gold medallist appears determined to focus on athlete development rather than sports administration.
Despite her strained relationship with sporting authorities, Semenya remains committed to athletics, but on her own terms.