Has the Media Gone too far with Caster Semenya?

Track star Caster Semenya

On Wednesday, August 18, 2009 Eighteen year-old Caster Semenya won 800-meter gold. Semenya took the lead in a impressive 2.45 seconds ahead of her respected competitors Janeth Jepkosgei and Jennifer Meadows. However, the South African teen win didn’t go without question. It began when Caster Semenya avoided interviewers, then some speculated about Caster’s muscular build and deep voice. Due to this, Caster Semenya had to undergo gender testing by the IAAF.

According to several news sites, recent reports have shown that Caster is a hermaphrodite. Because of this, there is a possibility that Caster could have her gold medal revoked.

In my opinion I feel the media has viciously attacked Caster. In this situation, the people of South Africa have every right to be angry. I’ve felt they’ve handled this entire thing poorly. Everything from the speculation to the leaked medical records.

I also find it crazy that she had to soften her image just to prove her femininity. I can only imagine the humiliation and pain she must be going through-especially only being 18. She’s become a media exploit and sadly, I don’t see this situation dying down anytime soon.

Caster Semenya on the Cover of You

Earlier this month Caster graced the cover of popular South African Magazine You

She discusses being comfortable in her own skin.

“I am who I am and I am proud of myself,” the 18-year-old said.”I’d like to dress up more often and wear dresses but I never get the chance,” she said as she was photographed in several outfits.

Caster then expresses how she feels about the entire situation:

“I see it all as a joke, it doesn’t upset me. God made me the way I am and I accept myself,” she said.”I’ve never bought my own clothes, my mum buys them for me, but now that I know I can look like this I’d like to dress like this more often,” she added.

Images: You

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