Graeme McDowell has tested positive for a banned substance.
In an Instagram post, McDowell explained he was randomly tested during LIV Golf Nashville. He used an over-the-counter decongestant that had a banned ingredient, leading to the positive result.
McDowell took full responsibility and accepted his suspension from Greenbrier. He acknowledged this tough lesson and emphasized the importance of integrity in sports. Looking ahead, he’s eager to rejoin his teammates at LIV Golf Chicago .
LIV Golf also released a statement about McDowell’s suspension. They confirmed he violated their anti-doping policy by using a decongestant containing R-methamphetamine (levo-methamphetamine). Consequently, McDowell faces a one-tournament suspension at Greenbrier, a $125,000 fine, and disqualification from LIV Golf Nashville with prize money and points adjusted.
Impact on Rankings:
Part of Brooks Koepka’s Smash GC team, McDowell is currently 23rd in the individual standings—just within the top 24 who keep their cards for the 2025 season. This ban could significantly affect his future in LIV Golf.
It’s unclear who will replace him on Smash GC, but it’s certain they’ll miss him as they sit seventh in team standings. Interestingly, Jena Sims posted positively about McDowell: “We love G-Mac, can’t wait to see you at the next one!”
Fans might think this news is quite surprising yet understandable given the circumstances.
This isn’t the first time players have faced suspensions for banned substances. In October 2023, Byeong Hun An was suspended for three months after taking medicine for a head cold and cough without checking its contents first.
An admitted his mistake in a statement: “In August (2023), I was suffering from a head cold and cough. As my symptoms worsened, my mother suggested I take a widely available medication from Korea that helped her through a similar ailment. I took this medicine without checking its contents first only to later find it contained a substance that is prohibited under the PGA Tour’s anti-doping program.”
What do you think about these suspensions? Are they fair or too harsh?
