This archive report was first published on 6 September 2019.
South African athlete Caster Semenya, a double Olympic champion, has taken a significant step towards a potential career change, signing with South African women's club JVW FC in September 2019.
Although Semenya will not be registered for the current SAFA Sasol League season, she will continue to train with JVW in preparation for a 2020 debut in the country's top tier.
Her latest move comes as she appeals the Court of Arbitration for Sport's ruling that supported regulations introduced by the sport's governing body, the IAAF, which temporarily lifted testosterone regulations imposed on her.
According to a statement on JVW's website, Semenya expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and appreciation for the love and support she receives from the team.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity and I appreciate the love and support I already get from the team. I’m looking forward to this new journey and hopefully I can contribute as much as I can to the club,” Semenya said.
Janine van Wyk, South Africa women's captain and owner of JVW, welcomed Semenya to the team, stating that she was delighted to have signed the athlete.
“I am absolutely honoured that out of all the other women's clubs around the world, she has chosen JVW as the club where she would like to start showcasing her football skills,” van Wyk said.
This move is not Semenya's first foray into football, as she will be training with JVW in preparation for a 2020 debut in the country's top tier.
