Two-time Olympic gold medalist Caster Semenya has publicly criticized International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry over the IOC's gender verification policies for women's competitions.

The South African middle-distance runner, who won Olympic gold in the 800 meters in 2012 and 2016, characterized the IOC's approach to gender testing as disrespectful to female athletes. Semenya expressed particular disappointment with Coventry's leadership on these issues.

Semenya's comments come amid ongoing debates within international sport regarding eligibility criteria for women's competitions. The runner has been a central figure in discussions about gender verification in athletics, having faced scrutiny over her natural testosterone levels throughout her career.

The IOC has implemented various policies regarding athlete eligibility for women's competitions, including restrictions on athletes with certain biological characteristics. These policies have generated significant debate within the sporting community about fairness and inclusion.

Semenya's criticism of Coventry, who became IOC president and is herself a former Olympic swimmer from Zimbabwe, highlights the continued tensions surrounding gender policies in international sport. The controversy reflects broader challenges facing sports governing bodies as they navigate questions of competitive fairness and athlete inclusion.