As the curtain came down on the Paris Olympics, the last person I expected to see caught up in a doping scandal was Northern Ireland’s Graeme McDowell.
GMac took to social media to explain how an over the counter Vicks nasal decongestant he took to combat congestion proved to be on the banned substances list, and that he’d since fully accepted sanctions imposed by LIV Golf that will see him miss its upcoming Nashville event.
It all read fairly innocuously until McDowell decided to launch a stray bullet seemingly in the direction of the PGA Tour, announcing in his statement that “unlike some other tours, LIV enforces these rules rigorously”.
As far as unnecessary remarks in statements go, McDowell’s throwaway line is right up there, serving as nothing more than propaganda for Greg Norman’s Saudi-backed circuit. The fact that his statement ended with saying how proud he is of his 22-year career, one wonders if he forgets two decades of that were spent on the tours whose anti-doping policies he’s openly criticising.
Then again, given the subject of doping in sports, it’s highly unlikely that GMac penned his own statement, continuing a trend in the LIV Golf ranks where leading players seemingly lend their platform to preach the good word of Norman et al in return for the gargantuan signing bonuses they received upon joining.
There’s no doubt that golf’s status quo lost some of its great characters to LIV Golf but in turn, the likes of Mickelson and Rahm lost their voices, instead they’re now seen parroting a ‘grow the game’ narrative clearly on the bingo cards of LIV’s most important suits.
That’s not to say the PGA Tour’s anti-doping policy is beyond criticism, but there’s a time and a place. Surely McDowell’s statement should’ve been one about taking ownership and not used as an opportunity to gain clout in this tiresome, never-ending feud?
McDowell’s statement in full:
Ahead of Nashville, I was struggling with severe congestion that was affecting my sleep. In an effort to manage it, I used a general 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 therapeutic use exemption. Unfortunately, I did not think to do this due to the over-the-counter nature of this medicine and I deeply regret the oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.
LIV’s anti-doping policy is designed to be thorough and transparent,” McDowell said. “Unlike some other tours LIV enforces these rules rigorously, which made this situation particularly challenging for me. However, I accept 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 focussed on moving forward and getting back on the golf course. I look forward to seeing everyone at LIV Chicago.