Australian Tennis Star Admits to Using Prohibited Method
Max Purcell, a celebrated two-time Grand Slam doubles champion, has agreed to a voluntary suspension after admitting to a breach of anti-doping regulations, announced the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) on Monday.
Details of the Suspension
The 26-year-old Australian, currently ranked 12th in the world for doubles, acknowledged his violation involved the use of a “prohibited method”. He requested and entered into a provisional suspension on December 10, which officially took effect two days later on December 12. The ITIA has confirmed that the time served under this suspension will be considered in any future penalties.
Impact on Participation
During this period of suspension, Purcell is barred from participating in any capacity playing, coaching, or even attending any tennis events sanctioned by the sport’s governing bodies or national associations. This notably disqualifies him from competing in the upcoming Australian Open scheduled for January in Melbourne Park.
Purcell’s Tennis Achievements
Purcell’s notable achievements include winning the 2022 Wimbledon doubles title with compatriot Matt Ebden and clinching the US Open doubles crown earlier this year with Jordan Thompson.
Nature of the Violation
Tennis Australia clarified that Purcell’s infraction pertained to a prohibited method rather than the use of a banned substance. The ITIA’s statement, as reported by local media, emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation, withholding further commentary on the matter.
Precedents in Tennis
This incident follows similar cases involving high-profile athletes. The ITIA previously charged world number one Jannik Sinner and number two Iga Swiatek for anti-doping breaches. Sinner was cleared after testing positive for clostebol, though an appeal from the World Anti-Doping Agency is pending. Swiatek received a one-month suspension for an unintentional infraction involving a heart medication. Both players are slated to compete in the Australian Open.
