World Athletics, the global governing body for track and field, has established a Sept. 1 deadline for female athletes to undergo gene testing as part of their eligibility to compete at the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo. The policy involves screening for natural testosterone levels, following the controversy over South African athlete Caster Semenya’s case. Semenya, a world champion in the 800m, has been at the center of a legal battle regarding her natural testosterone levels and eligibility to compete.
The decision comes amid growing global pressure to address gender equity in sports. Critics argue that the policy may unfairly target female athletes with naturally higher testosterone levels, raising ethical concerns about fairness and discrimination. Supporters, however, claim the requirement is necessary to maintain a competitive balance, especially in events like the 800m and 1500m. The organization has emphasized that the tests are designed to detect naturally occurring testosterone, not synthetic performance-enhancing substances, and that the results will be used solely to determine eligibility.
While the deadline is set, some athletes have expressed concerns about the implications of the policy, particularly regarding privacy and the potential for stigmatization. The case of Semenya has drawn significant attention, with her legal team challenging the ruling in international courts. As the Tokyo World Championships approach, the impact of this decision on future competitions and athlete rights remains a topic of debate in sports circles and beyond.