Cape Town - South Africa’s 800m world champion, Caster Semenya, is ready to defend her title in South Korea, according to her communications team.

The following statement was released:

The recent media reports that Caster Semenya is not ready to defend her world 800m title are untrue. Semenya remains disciplined, focused and excited about representing South Africa at the IAAF World Championship in South Korea. In true championship style, she has embarked upon a stringent training programme in preparation for the world event.

Currently she is doing light, final training at the home base in Pretoria, South Africa. We wish to dismiss any rumours that there is trouble in her camp. These rumours are seen as attempts to discourage and distract her from her glorious quest for gold.

We furthermore wish to assure South Africans and Caster’s supporters that all is well with our champ and that she is going to put up a strong fight in defence of her title. We call upon all sectors of the South African society to rally behind her and team South Africa as they fly the country’s flag high.