Navratilova gives Caster her backing

London – Tennis great Martina Navratilova has come to the defence of Caster Semenya ahead of next week’s hearing on proposed rules that aim to restrict testosterone levels in female athletes.

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has proposed rules that would force so-called “hyperandrogenic” athletes to medically lower their testosterone levels below a prescribed amount.

Track and field’s global governing body wants to introduce the rule changes in order to promote what it says will be fairer competition between all female athletes.

“Leaving out sprints and longer distances seems to me to be a clear case of discrimination,” Navratilova wrote.

“And can it be right to order athletes to take medication? What if the long-term effects proved harmful?” –