LIV Golf pro suspended after positive drugs test: “I fully accept the sanctions”

Graeme McDowell Suspended by LIV Golf for Use of Banned Nasal Decongestant

Graeme McDowell, a former U.S. Open champion, has been suspended by the LIV Golf League for one tournament and fined $125,000 after testing positive for a banned substance. The league announced on Sunday that McDowell’s suspension is the result of his use of a nasal decongestant containing levomethamphetamine, which was detected during a tournament held in College Grove, Tennessee, from June 21-23.

In a statement posted on social media, McDowell explained that he had been suffering from severe congestion that was disrupting his sleep ahead of the LIV Golf event in Nashville. To manage his symptoms, he used a generic Vicks nasal decongestant without realizing it contained a substance prohibited under LIV Golf’s anti-doping policy.

“Before LIV Nashville, I was dealing with significant congestion that impacted my ability to sleep,” McDowell stated. “In an effort to alleviate the symptoms, I used an over-the-counter Vicks nasal decongestant, unaware that it contained a banned substance. 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 necessary steps to verify this medication due to its over-the-counter nature, and I deeply regret this oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV Golf.”

McDowell, the winner of the 2010 U.S. Open, is the first player to be sanctioned under LIV Golf’s anti-doping regulations. He emphasized the importance of the policy in maintaining the integrity of the sport, acknowledging that while the situation was difficult, he respects the enforcement of the rules.

“LIV’s Anti-Doping policy is designed to be thorough and transparent,” McDowell said in his statement. “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.”

As a result of the suspension, McDowell will miss the upcoming tournament at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The LIV Golf League has not yet announced who will replace him in the field. McDowell will be eligible to return to competition at a tournament in Bolingbrook, Illinois, scheduled for September 13-15.

McDowell finished tied for 42nd place in the 54-man field at LIV Golf Nashville, posting a score of 1-under par, 18 strokes behind the individual winner, Tyrrell Hatton. His team, Smash GC, which is captained by Brooks Koepka, finished 12th out of 13 teams in the competition. Following the disqualification, McDowell and his team will have their points and prize money from the Nashville event adjusted retroactively.