'Gender row' athlete Semenya says Mandela's belief 'helped her through her hell'

London, July 18(ANI): Middle distance runner Caster Semenya, who had been required to undergo a gender test due to the presence of higher level of testosterones, has revealed that former South African president Nelson Mandela's belief in her, inspired her to fight every obstacle coming her way.

"I believe in you. Go out there and make me proud," the former president of South Africa told the shy, shell-shocked Semenya with a warm smile.

Semenya was left complaining of unwarranted and invasive scrutiny of the most intimate and private details of my being. But then came the soothing words from the inspirational Mandela.

"I never felt I would meet him face to face. It was great. He is a such a hero in South Africa. He inspired me and motivated me, made me believe in what I do best - that I could win more medals," The Daily Mirror quoted Semenya, as saying.

"Without his support, maybe I would not be where I am today. Everything I do, I do for him," she added

Semenya said she is feeling great these days, and her past experiences had made her a stronger person.

"I'm feeling great, honestly. With each year I experience I become more relaxed. I know now what is important to listen to and what to ignore. You only get that with age," Semenya said. (ANI)