IAAF President Sebastian Coe says he's 'grateful' for a decision reached by the Court of Arbitration for Sport over Caster Semenya's appeal, which he believes was 'pretty straight forward'.
The double 800-metres women's Olympic champion will now have to reduce her naturally high levels of testosterone if she wants to continue to compete.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of an IAAF Diamond League event in Doha, Coe remarked on yesterday's landmark ruling.
"It's pretty straightforward. Athletics has two classifications, it has age and gender.
"We are fiercely protective of both and I am really grateful the court of arbitration has upheld that principle.
"This is a Diamond League press conference, that is as much as I really need to say."
28-year-old Semenya is expected to appeal CAS' decision but last night hinted that she may instead retire from track and field.
"Knowing when to walk away is wisdom. Being able to is courage," it read.
"Walking away with your head held high is dignity."
Ke mokgadi letapa golema goja go phala le hashumi.
🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️💣
That's me and will always be.
Ke feditse.— Caster Semenya (@caster800m) May 2, 2019
Athletics South Africa has accused the Court of Arbitration for Sport of 'going to lengths to justify' discrimination.
"We believe their decision is disgraceful...we are deeply disappointed and profoundly shocked that the CAS award is in favour of upholding the new IAAF regulations for female athletes.
“South Africa knows discrimination better and CAS has seen it fit to open the wounds of apartheid a system of discrimination condemned by the whole world as a crime against humanity.
“For CAS does not only condone discrimination but also goes to lengths to justify it, only undermines the integrity that this body is entrusted with. We believe their decision is disgraceful.
“The national federation continues to express our wholehearted support for Caster Semenya and all other female athletes who are similarly affected by the CAS award around the world. ASA will shortly decide on the way forward and further decide on whether to challenge the award or not.”
Semenya has 30-days in which to lodge an appeal.
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