The LIV Golf League has suspended Graeme McDowell from one tournament and fined him $125,000 for using a nasal decongestant that contained a banned substance, the league announced Sunday.
A statement from the LIV Golf League said McDowell tested positive for levomethamphetamine at a tournament in College Grove, Tennessee, June 21-23.
“Prior to LIV Nashville, I was struggling with congestion that was interfering with my sleep,” McDowell said in a statement on social media. “In an attempt to control it, I used Vicks decongestant without realizing that 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 take the time to do this due to the nature of this over-the-counter drug, and I deeply regret my oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV. “
– Graeme McDowell (@Graeme_McDowell) August 11, 2024
McDowell, the 2010 US 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 clear and transparent,” McDowell said in his statement. “Unlike other tournaments, LIV strictly enforces these rules, which made this situation especially challenging for me. However, I respect the need for these rules and penalties – they are essential to maintaining the integrity of the sport.”
McDowell will miss next week’s tournament at The Greenbrier in White Sulfur Springs, West Virginia. His successor has not yet been named. McDowell will qualify for the return tournament in Bolingbrook, Illinois, on September 13-15.
McDowell is tied for 42nd in the 54-man field at 1 under at LIV Golf Nashville, 18 strokes behind winner Tyrrell Hatton. McDowell’s Smash GC team, captained by Brooks Koepka, finished 12th out of 13 in the team championship.
LIV Golf said McDowell and Smash GC will be disqualified from that tournament and their scores and prize money will be adjusted.
