Following an emphatic victory in the women's 800 metres final at the Berlin 2009 World Championships Semenya faced widespread accusations regarding the legitimacy of her gold medal because of questions over her gender.

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) demanded she undergo gender testing and the athlete was forced to stay out of competition for 11 months before finally being allowed back on the track at the end of last year.

However, despite the obvious turmoil, Semenya said she is unconcerned.

"I didn't see it as a big deal, I know people talk but I don't care," the 20-year-old told BBC Newsnight.

"I'm not ashamed of being myself, I know who I am.

"There's only one person who can judge me - there's only God.

"Why should I bother myself by entertaining what people are saying?

"I don't care what anyone says as long as I am back on the track.

"It's easy when I'm on the track.

"I'm not here to talk, I'm here to run - that's how I do my thing.

"I don't care who says what."



A relative unknown before the World Championship victory, Semenya admits there were doubts over her gender before the competition, which she was not aware of at the time, but that it was not a big problem as her ability had been underestimated.

"They didn't know I was dangerous like other athletes," said Semenya.

"They just knew this is a useless athlete from South Africa.

"I just ran and then, wow, African champion!"

The details of the high profile gender tests that followed have never been made public although Semenya is irritated at speculation that she required hormone treatment before being allowed to compete again Semenya said: "Treatment? Why should I have treatment?

"What is the reality of this situation?"

Now allowed compete again, Semenya has her sights firmly set of the future.

Her goals now are defending her World Championship crown at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu later this year and ultimately winning gold at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

"You need to think about positive things, about the future," said Semenya.

"So that's how I'm living.

"You don't have to think about the things that happen in the past, they will destroy you.

"I know my memory doesn't die.

"I don't forget what has happened to me, but you keep it away."

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