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Mark Schlabach, ESPN Senior Writer
The LIV Golf League announced Sunday that Graeme McDowell has been suspended for one tournament and fined $125,000 for using a nasal decongestant containing a banned substance.
According to a statement from the LIV Golf League, McDowell tested positive for levomethamphetamine during a tournament held June 21-23 in College Grove, Tennessee.
“Prior to LIV Nashville, I struggled with severe congestion that was affecting my sleep,” McDowell said in a statement on social media. “To manage it, I used generic Vicks nasal decongestant, not realizing it might be on the banned list.
“As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of reviewing all medications and the option of applying for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). Unfortunately, due to the over-the-counter nature of this medication, I was unable to take the time to do so and I deeply regret my mistake. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.”
— Graeme McDowell (@Graeme_McDowell) August 11, 2024
McDowell, the 2010 U.S. Open winner, is the first golfer to be disciplined under LIV Golf’s anti-doping policy.
“LIV’s anti-doping policy is designed to be thorough and transparent,” McDowell said in a statement. “This situation has been particularly difficult for me because LIV, unlike other tours, enforces these rules strictly. However, I respect the need for these rules and penalties, which are essential to maintaining the integrity of the sport.”
McDowell will miss next week’s tournament at the Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. His replacement has not yet been named. McDowell will be eligible to return for the tournament in Bolingbrook, Illinois, Sept. 13-15.
McDowell finished 42nd out of 54 players at LIV Golf Nashville at 1-under, 18 strokes behind individual winner Tyrrell Hatton. McDowell’s Smash GC team, captained by Brooks Koepka, finished 12th out of 13 teams in the team event.
LIV Golf said McDowell and Smash GC have been disqualified from the tournament and their points and prize money will be retroactively adjusted.
