Nota Baloyi Trolls Athlete Caster Semenya After Prudence Sekgodiso’s 800m Victory

Nota Baloyi sparked controversy on social media after trolling celebrated athlete Caster Semenya in light of Prudence Sekgodiso’s recent triumph in the 800m race.

Sekgodiso claimed her first Diamond League title in Marrakech with a personal best time of 1:57.26, earning her the No. 1 spot in the world for the year so far.

South Africa’s Prudence Sekgodiso puts in a sublime performance to win the 1500m and record a world-leading time at the #MarrakechDL 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/xVH7cW2ip5

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) May 19, 2024

In a tweet celebrating Prudence’s win, Nota Baloyi took a jab at Semenya, a two-time Olympic champion and three-time world champion over 800m.

Baloyi wrote, “A real leading lady… That man can retire now!” While he didn’t mention Semenya by name, the implication was clear.

The tweet immediately drew backlash, with many defending Semenya:

Uncalled for man. She can’t be fighting Europe and her own people!

— 𝗢𝗳𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗲 🔥🚀 (@unclescrooch) May 22, 2024

Bigger balls probably!

— MORAL Authority (@lavidaNOTA) May 22, 2024

Caster Semenya has been a prominent figure in athletics, facing numerous challenges and controversies over her career due to regulations surrounding her natural testosterone levels. Despite these challenges, she remains a highly decorated athlete and an inspiration to many.

Nota Baloyi’s comments have sparked a debate about respect and support within the athletic community, particularly for athletes facing significant external pressures.