“There’s Nothing I Haven’t Achieved” – Caster Semenya

By Samukelo “Sports Mjita” Gambushe 

Olympic champion Caster Semenya says she remains in a positive frame of mind despite being sidelined from her signature 800m event for the past seven years due to World Athletics’ controversial regulations.

The 34-year-old South African middle-distance legend, who claimed Olympic gold in 2012 and 2016 and world titles in 2009, 2011, and 2017, has been barred from competing since 2018 after refusing to comply with rules requiring athletes with differences of sexual development (DSD) to medically lower their testosterone levels to compete in certain events.

Speaking at the launch of a groundbreaking partnership with global fabric care brand OMO at Inanda Polo Club in Sandton, Semenya reflected on her career and future in the sport as she awaits a verdict from the European Court of Human Rights’ Grand Chamber in September.

“I’m fulfilled,” Semenya said. “I’m that kind of athlete who moves on very fast. I accept, and then I move on. People need to understand that in sport, nothing is permanent. Obviously, there comes a time when you have to retire. But if you look at my records, there’s nothing I haven’t achieved. So, I’m in a good state of mind.”

Since stepping off the track in 2022, Semenya has shifted her focus toward coaching and mentorship, aiming to pass on the knowledge and experience she has gained over the years to the next generation of athletes.

“I’m now in a place where I’m instilling and sharing my knowledge with young athletes—coaching them and helping them deliver,” she said. “The transition has been good. I’ve been self-coached from 2016 to 2019, designing my own training programs, so I understand what it takes to succeed. Coaching is beautiful. I’m enjoying it and love what I’m doing.”

Despite the lengthy legal battle with World Athletics, Semenya has not ruled out a return to competitive running. However, she remains cautious as she awaits the outcome of her appeal.

“We’re expecting something around spring, ahead of the European season,” she said. “But you can’t say much after appearing before 21 judges—you just have to wait and see whether it goes in your favor.”

Semenya also expressed optimism about the state of South African athletics following its strong showing at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the emergence of new talent like Prudence Sekgodiso, who recently made history by winning South Africa’s first women’s world indoor medal with victory in the 800m final at the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China.

“I think South African athletics is in good hands. We’re doing well, and the development is strong,” Semenya said. “As for Prudence, she’s doing great. I’m happy with what I’m seeing. If she stays humble and focused, we’ll see even greater results later this year in Tokyo. She’s definitely a strong medal contender.”

With a legacy already cemented, Semenya now stands as both a symbol of resilience and a mentor to rising stars. Her partnership with OMO celebrates exactly that spirit—championing those who stay unbeatable and play on through life’s toughest moments. Whether back on the track or building new pathways through mentorship, she’s writing her next chapter on her own terms—pushing forward, embracing the journey, and proving that growth is born from perseverance, no matter how messy life gets.