On with Kara Swisher

Olympian Caster Semenya on Fighting to Run

Nov 27, 2023
Caster Semenya, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, shares her compelling journey in the world of athletics. She discusses the ongoing legal battles with World Athletics over regulations surrounding testosterone levels, questioning who defines womanhood in sports. Semenya reflects on the challenge of societal labels and the importance of self-identity, urging for inclusivity and better representation in sports. Her new book, 'A Race to Be Myself', delves deeper into her experiences and the fight for equity in athletics.
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ANECDOTE

Caster's Discovery

  • Caster Semenya discovered her intersex status during a medical test at 18 years old.
  • This information was leaked to the public, creating a global controversy.
ANECDOTE

Hormone Therapy

  • Semenya was given the option of surgery or hormone therapy to lower her testosterone levels.
  • She chose hormone therapy to continue competing but experienced significant negative side effects.
INSIGHT

Unfair Advantage?

  • World Athletics claims high testosterone gives women an unfair advantage, but Semenya points out women's times don't approach men's.
  • She questions why women's sports are regulated based on testosterone while men's genetics are embraced.
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