Graeme McDowell suspended by LIV Golf; criticizes other tours for anti-doping enforcement
Graeme McDowell has been suspended by LIV Golf for violating the league’s anti-doping policy.
McDowell, 45, tested positive during a LIV event in Nashville for use of a vasoconstrictor containing R-methamphetamine, a controlled substance. The former US Open winner will be suspended for one tournament and fined $125,000. In addition, McDowell and his team’s results for the Nashville competition have been voided (McDowell finished 42nd out of 52 players and his Smash club finished 12th out of 13 teams). McDowell posted a note on Twitter/X acknowledging that he took Vicks nasal decongestant for a sleep disorder.
“As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of having all medications tested and able to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE),” McDowell wrote. “Unfortunately, given the nature of this over-the-counter drug, it did not occur to me that this had occurred to me. I deeply regret this oversight and I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.”
McDowell went on to use the suspension to criticize other Anonymous tours for what McDowell saw as a lack of drug control. “LIV’s anti-doping policy is designed to be thorough and transparent. Unlike other Tours, these rules are strictly enforced at LIV, which is why this situation was particularly difficult for me. However, I respect the need for these rules and sanctions – they are necessary to maintain the integrity of the sport. I am proud of my 22-year career and the way I have conducted myself throughout that career. Now I’m focused on moving forward and getting back on the golf course. I look forward to seeing you all at LIV Chicago.”
McDowell competed on the Saudi Arabia-sponsored circuit during its inaugural 2022 season. That summer, he finished 39th at another table, and after the 42nd day last year, he started on the 42nd. Macdauella has 16 global victories in his career, including 11 in European rounds.
