Caster Semenya’s court ruling from the European Court of Human Rights marks a major milestone in her legal fight. Judges found that Switzerland violated her right to a fair trial. Semenya had challenged World Athletics’ rules. These require athletes with differences in sexual development (DSD) to lower their natural testosterone levels to compete in women’s events.
Human Rights Breach Confirmed
On Wednesday, the court ruled in a close 4–3 decision. It found that Swiss authorities failed to protect Semenya’s rights during her appeal. Judges said her rights under Articles 8 and 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights were breached. These articles cover privacy and protection from discrimination.
The ruling does not overturn World Athletics’ DSD policy. However, it raises serious questions about how fairly the legal process treated Semenya. The court ruling in favour of Caster Semenya shifts attention to how sports policies align with basic human rights.
A Decade-long Battle
Semenya has fought these rules for more than a decade. She believes they unfairly target her identity as a woman in sport. In 2019, the Court of Arbitration for Sport upheld the DSD regulations. The Swiss Federal Supreme Court later confirmed that decision. As a result, Semenya took her case to Europe’s top human rights court.
She argued the rules harmed her dignity and violated her right to compete freely. Caster Semenya’s court case shows how deeply such policies affect athletes’ careers and personal freedoms.
Global Impact on Sports Regulations
The ruling does not require World Athletics to change its policy. Still, it increases pressure to revisit how eligibility rules are applied. A World Athletics spokesperson said the organisation is reviewing the court’s decision before issuing a response.
Semenya, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, welcomed the outcome. She described it as long-overdue justice.
The court ruling not only sets a legal precedent. It also highlights the urgent need for fairer treatment of athletes in global sport.
