Semenya responds to court case with victory on track in 800

DOHA, Qatar — Caster Semenya has easily won the 800 meters at a Diamond League meet, her first race since losing a high-profile court case against track and field's governing body.

The Olympic champion was never challenged Friday when she won in 1 minute 54.98 seconds, her fourth fastest time. She faced a strong field that included two Olympic medalists — Francine Niyonsaba and Maragaret Wambui.

Semenya's dominance in the 800 might be at an end, though.

This was the last women's 800-meter race before new regulations take effect. They will require Semenya and other female athletes with high levels of natural testosterone to lower them to be eligible to compete in certain events.

Semenya has not said if she will follow those rules or switch to longer distances not affected by the regulations.

AP