Graeme McDowell has been suspended from next week’s LIV Greenbrier event for violating the league’s anti-doping policy.
McDowell, the 2010 U.S. Open champion who has been playing on LIV Golf since its debut and is a member of Smash GC, violated the league’s anti-doping policy during LIV Golf Nashville by using a decongestant medicine that included a banned substance, R-methamphetamine (levo-methamphetamine).
In accordance with the policy, a one tournament suspension effective at LIV Golf Greenbrier will be imposed, LIV announced, a fine of $125,000 will be assessed and the player’s and team’s results for LIV Golf Nashville will be disqualified (with prize money and points retroactively adjusted).
McDowell explained in a social media post that he took “a generic Vicks nasal decongestant without realizing it might be on the banned list.” The 45-year-old Northern Irishman said he was struggling with severe congestion that was affecting his sleep.
“In an effort to manage it, I used a generic Vicks nasal decongestant without realizing it might be on the banned 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 think to do this due to the over-the-counter nature of this medicine, and I deeply regret the oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV,” he wrote.
In his social media post, McDowell took a shot at “some other tours” for not enforcing the rules as thoroughly as 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,” he wrote. “I’m proud of my 22-year career and the way I’ve conducted myself throughout it. Now, I’m focused on moving forward and getting back on the golf course. I look forward to seeing everyone at LIV Chicago.”
LIV Golf Chicago, which begins Sept. 13, is the next event McDowell would be eligible to play.
McDowell’s vacancy on Smash GC will be filled by a to-be-confirmed reserve player at LIV Golf Greenbrier, Aug. 16-18.
