Olympic Champion Caster Semenya Condemns IOC's Gender Verification Policy

Semenya calls IOC's reinstatement of gender tests for 2028 Olympics a 'disrespect for women'

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:18pm

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Caster Semenya, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in the 800m, has strongly criticized the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision to reinstate gender verification tests for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Semenya, who has faced scrutiny over her natural testosterone levels, says the IOC's policy shows a 'disrespect for women'.

Why it matters

Semenya's comments highlight the ongoing controversy around the IOC's policies on transgender and intersex athletes. The reinstatement of gender testing raises concerns about fairness and inclusion in women's sports, and Semenya's high-profile criticism puts pressure on the IOC to re-evaluate its stance.

The details

The IOC announced in 2026 that it would be reinstating gender verification tests for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a move that Semenya has strongly condemned as disrespectful to women athletes. Semenya, who was forced to take medication to lower her natural testosterone levels in order to compete, has been a vocal advocate for greater inclusion and fairness in women's sports.

  • The IOC announced the gender verification policy change in 2026.
  • The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are scheduled to take place.

The players

Caster Semenya

A two-time Olympic gold medalist in the 800m event, Semenya has been a prominent advocate for the rights of intersex and transgender athletes.

International Olympic Committee (IOC)

The global governing body for the Olympic Games, which has faced criticism for its policies regarding gender and testosterone levels in women's sports.

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What they’re saying

“The reinstatement of gender tests for the 2028 Olympics is a disrespect for women.”

— Caster Semenya, Olympic Champion

What’s next

The IOC is expected to face continued scrutiny and pressure from athletes, advocates, and the public over its gender verification policies leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The takeaway

Semenya's strong condemnation of the IOC's gender testing policy highlights the ongoing debate around fairness, inclusion, and respect for women athletes in sports. The reinstatement of these tests raises concerns that the IOC is not adequately addressing the complex issues surrounding natural physical variations among competitors.