Graeme McDowell has become the first golfer to be suspended under LIV Golf’s anti-doping policy, but the former major champion says he has a reasonable explanation for the positive test.
LIV Golf announced on Sunday that McDowell has been suspended for one tournament and fined $125,000 after he tested positive for levomethamphetamine at a tournament last month, per Reuters.
In a statement on social media, McDowell then explained that he had been “struggling with severe congestion” during the LIV Nashville tournament, which was held from June 21-23. McDowell said he used a “generic Vicks nasal decongestant” to alleviate his symptoms without realizing the over-the-counter medication was on LIV’s banned substance list.
“As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of checking all medications and the option to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). Unfortunately, I did not take the time to do this due to the over-the-counter nature of this medicine, and deeply regret the oversight,” McDowell wrote. “I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.
“LIV’s Anti-Doping policy is designed to be thorough and transparent. Unlike some other tours, LIV enforces these rules rigorously, which made this situation particularly challenging for me. However, I respect the need for these rules and penalties — they are essential for maintaining the integrity of the sport.”
