Former US Open champion Graeme McDowell has been suspended from LIV Golf for violating the Tour’s anti-doping policy.
McDowell, 45, will miss a tournament because he “took a decongestant that contained a banned substance.”
4
The Northern Irishman was found to have violated the policy during LIV Golf Nashville in June.
In addition to the suspension, McDowell has also been fined a hefty £98,000.
McDowell said: “Before LIV Nashville, I was struggling with severe congestion that was impacting my sleep.
“In an attempt to deal with it, I used a common nasal decongestant, not realising it might be on the banned list.
“As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of testing all medications and the option to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE).
“Unfortunately, due to the over-the-counter nature of this medicine I did not think to do so and I deeply regret this oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.”
He added, “I am proud of my 22-year career and the way I have conducted myself throughout it.”
“Now, my focus is on moving forward and getting back on the golf course. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone at LIV Chicago.”
McDowell’s suspension will prevent him from participating in the next LIV event, which begins on August 16 in West Virginia.
But he will be able to return for the next event on September 13 in Chicago.
4
McDowell’s violation will not only impact him, but also his teammates at Smash G.C.
His and his teammates’ results would be retroactively disqualified from the Nashville competition.
McDowell finished one shot under par in the event, leading Smash GC to finish 12th out of 13 teams.
Other Smash GC teammates include Brooks Koepka, Talor Gooch and Jason Kokrak.
McDowell moved to LIV Golf in 2022 after spending 20 years on the European Tour and PGA Tour.
The Portrush-born star, who goes by the nickname G-Mac, became US Open champion in 2010 – and became the only player not to score over par on Pebble Beach’s tricky course.
McDowell has not returned to the main circuit since his LIV switch, with his last major championship coming in 2020 at the expiry of his 10-year exemption for the tournament.
4
