Caster Semenya reignites battle against sex eligibility rules

In July 2025, the European Court of Human Rights is set to announce a ruling regarding the long-standing case of Caster Semenya, a South African athlete who has faced significant legal hurdles related to her eligibility to compete in women's sports due to her naturally high testosterone levels. Semenya's journey in sports began when she won the 800 meters title at the World Championships in 2009, which led to scrutiny of her sex and subsequent legal challenges by sports authorities that implemented rules in 2018 requiring athletes with conditions like hers to suppress their testosterone levels to compete. Semenya has consistently maintained that her high testosterone is a genetic advantage and a gift, framing her struggle as one of human rights rather than merely competitive advantage. The recent deliberation by the European court could either reaffirm the regulations imposed by World Athletics or challenge the existing framework, which may have far-reaching implications for female athletes across various sports, including swimming and soccer, which are currently reviewing similar eligibility rules. The stakes are high as a ruling against Semenya could conclude her legal challenges, while a favorable verdict could open the door to potential changes in how sports authorities handle cases involving athletes with differences of sexual development (DSDs). The outcome will likely set a legal precedent affecting future debates on athletic eligibility and the rights of female athletes worldwide, particularly those with complex biological conditions.