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

LIV Golf pro Graeme McDowell has been suspended and fined from one tournament after he tested positive for a banned substance. 

McDowell took to X on 11 August to confirm he had used a 'generic' Vicks nasal decongestant ahead of LIV Nashville after struggling to sleep.

The golfer didn't realise that it was on the list of prohibited substances, he said. 

The 45-year-old said he did not think to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) because of the 'over the counter nature' of the medicine. 

In his statement, McDowell said he 'deeply' regretted the oversight and he fully accepted the sanctions imposed by the breakaway tour.

He also appeared to hit out at the PGA Tour by saying that LIV, 'Unlike other tours', enforces rules rigorously. 

The former European Ryder Cup star appeared to confirm he has been banned from competing in one LIV event. 

McDowell said he looks forward to getting back into action at LIV Chicago over 13-15 September. 

It means that he won't be in the field at The Greenbrier next week and explains why he withdrew from last week's Asian Tour event.

McDowell and his LIV peer Ian Poulter were expected to headline the International Series event at Foxhills in Surrey.

But both players pulled out. Poulter cited the recurrence of an ankle injury whilst McDowell did not give a reason. 

"Ahead of LIV Nashville, I was struggling with severe congestion that was affecting my sleep," McDowell said in a statement. 

"In an effort to manage it, I used a generic Vicks nasal decongestant without realising 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 TUE.

"Unfortunately, I did not think to do this due to the over the counter nature of the medicine, and I deeply regret the oversight.

"I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV."

He continued: "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 rules and penalties - they are essential for maintaining the integrity of the sport.

"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."

It has been reported that McDowell has been fined $125,000 (£98,000) for the offence.

The results of McDowell and his team from LIV Nashville will be disqualified following his suspension.

McDowell was among the first wave of players to join the controversial, Saudi-backed league in June 2022. 

He resigned his membership with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour 30 minutes before the first tee shots were hit in LIV's inaugural event at Centurion Club. 

McDowell is currently a member of Brooks Koepka's Smash GC. 

He spent the first two campaigns as part of Martin Kaymer's Cleeks outfit.

McDowell has not played in a major championship since the 2020 U.S. Open, when his 10-year exemption for winning the tournament expired. 

He has since tumbled to 972 in the Official World Golf Ranking. 

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