South African middle-distance runner, Caster Semenya's come back to the track hit a dead end after she failed to qualify for the 5,000m final.
After being out for five years, Semenya failed to proceed to the women's 5,000m finals in the World Athletics Championship in Oregon, US.
Semenya, who was making her first appearance in five years, finished 13th in the first two rounds at Hayward Field, Eugene.
Also Read: World Championships: 3 Kenyans Into Women's 5,000m Final
The South African athlete spoke afterward highlighting that the heat was not conducive for her to keep up with the pace of the race.
“It was hot and I could not keep up with the pace, I tried to stick as much as I could, but you know, it is a part of the game.
“I think it's great to be able to run here. Just being able to finish the 5,000m race, for me is a blessing. I am learning and willing to learn even more," Semenya stated.
The two-time Olympic champion is commonly known for participating in the short distance races but switched to 5,000m race after being banned due to guidelines affecting women with conditions causing naturally high testosterone.
Her participation in Oregon was in doubt after she was excluded from South Africa's first list of athletes but was included after some of highly ranked runners opted out of the race.
The last global tournament Semenya participated in was the 2017 World Championships, where she won a third world title in the 800m and took bronze in the 1500m.
The 5,000m final will be taking place on Monday morning, July 25, with Kenya being represented by the trio of Margaret Chelimo, Beatrice Chebet and Gloria Kite.
Also Read: Norah Jeruto Bags Kazakhstan's First World Championships Title