Such sentiments have been fanned by the authorities with accusations of sexism and racism, rather than examining the issues. But she is a strong woman because women are strong and can handle the pressure, that's why she's able to win.' 'There's a stereotype, a woman should put on make-up, high shoes and be soft. 'She has the right to be who she is and nobody has the right to judge her,' she said. Nehwoh Belinda, of the rights group People Opposing Women Abuse, said Semenya was being targeted because she was a woman who did not conform to social stereotypes. There are so many people who look like men but they are not questioned.' Zoliswa Mabindisa, 28, a businesswoman, said: 'I'm very cross with the IAAF. 'There's a problem when coming to internationals, whereby even if a black person can make a good thing they don't accept it. 'When they say they are going to test her gender, that has touched me,' said Hendrik Dalani, 34, a supermarket distribution worker.

In response, South Africa has been swept up in a flood of patriotic defiance. Amid the joy and pride on display at Johannesburg's international airport this week lay a deep-seated wave of anger.Īround 3,000 people packed the arrivals hall of Tambo airport, with plastic horns and trumpets blaring, drums beating, and the floor of the building vibrating to their dancing as they welcomed home Caster Semenya, the controversial athletics women's world champion at 800m, and the country's other medallists.īanners proclaimed her a 'golden girl' and others declared 'Caster you beaut!', despite questions over her gender.

Selfish indignation