Graeme McDowell Faces Suspension for Using Banned Substance in Nasal Spray
08/12/2024 by Max Hollweck
Graeme McDowell was suspended from the LIV Golf League for using a banned substance in a nasal spray. He accepted the penalty but criticized other tours’ anti-doping enforcement.
Graeme McDowell was suspended from the LIV Golf League for using a banned substance in a nasal spray. (Source: Getty)
Graeme McDowell, the 2010 U.S. Open Champion, has been suspended from participating in the upcoming LIV Golf League event in Nashville, Tennessee. The suspension, accompanied by a hefty fine of $125,000, was imposed after McDowell tested positive for L-Methamphetamine, a banned substance found in an over-the-counter nasal decongestant he purchased.
Graeme McDowell Has Been Suspended from the LIV Golf League
The 45-year-old Northern Irish golfer had reportedly purchased the Vicks nasal spray from a local drugstore to alleviate his congestion. Unbeknownst to McDowell, the product contained the prohibited substance, leading to his positive test result during a routine doping control. “As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of thoroughly checking all medications and applying for a therapeutic use exemption when necessary,” McDowell expressed on the social media platform X. “Unfortunately, I neglected to do so in this case, as it was an over-the-counter medication, and I deeply regret this oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.”
The consequences of McDowell’s oversight extend beyond personal penalties; his disqualification also led to the exclusion of his entire Smash GC team from the Nashville event. This incident serves as a stark reminder to all professional athletes about the importance of vigilance when it comes to medication, even those that are easily accessible.
McDowell Shifts Blame, Criticizes Other Tours Amid Doping Controversy
However, McDowell did not stop at accepting responsibility. In true LIV Golf fashion, he used the opportunity to take a swipe at the broader golf establishment. “LIV’s anti-doping policy is designed with thoroughness and transparency in mind,” he noted. “Unlike some other tours, LIV rigorously enforces these rules… They are essential for maintaining the integrity of the sport.”
McDowell’s comments echo sentiments often associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump, a known supporter of LIV Golf, who has a reputation for deflecting blame and turning personal missteps into criticisms of others. McDowell’s decision to turn his own violation into a critique of other tours highlights the ongoing tensions between LIV Golf and the traditional golf world.
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