Distressing news for golf enthusiasts. Particularly those who passionately follow LIV Golf. Brooks Koepka’s squad will be incomplete at the 2024 LIV Greenbrier. Yes, you heard correctly! Graeme McDowell, a member of Brooks Koepka’s Smashers GC team, will not be participating in the upcoming LIV tournament.
Surprisingly, this incident occurred during the last LIV event. The golfer provided an update on his Instagram, stating, “During LIV Golf Nashville, I was randomly selected for a test as part of the league’s anti-doping program. I mistakenly used an over-the-counter medicated decongestant stick for congestion that contained a prohibited substance, resulting in a positive test.” This unintentional mistake led to a positive test; however, McDowell took full responsibility for his actions.
“I accept full responsibility and have agreed to the penalties imposed by LIV Golf, including the suspension from Greenbrier,” the caption continued. The golfer expressed remorse for his actions, and it was evident in his words. However, the suspension does not bode well for the Smashers and especially their leader, Koepka, as the $3 million team prize money may now remain a mere dream. This is a significant setback for the team, as all their plans and strategies are now rendered useless without one of their key players, McDowell.
Although this experience has been challenging, the four-time PGA champion understands the importance of rules and integrity. “This has been a difficult learning experience, but I recognize the significance of upholding the integrity of our sport.” But does this suspension mean that the golfer will be absent for the entire LIV season? Well, no, but that could have been a nightmare for the fans and the golfer himself.
Golf enthusiasts can rest assured that their favorite player will be returning to LIV Golf Chicago next month, where the Individual Championship will take place. “I’m excited to be back on the course with my teammates at LIV Golf Chicago,” wrote the golfer. LIV Golf Chicago will commence on September 13 and conclude on September 15 at Bolingbrook Golf Club in Bolingbrook, IL.
LIV Golf has suspended Graeme McDowell of Smash GC from the upcoming tournament due to a violation of the league’s anti-doping policy. During LIV Golf Nashville, McDowell used a decongestant medication containing the banned substance R-methamphetamine (levo-methamphetamine), resulting in the suspension.
In addition to being absent from the tournament, McDowell will also face a significant financial penalty. According to the LIV Golf website, he will be required to pay a fine of $125,000. Furthermore, McDowell’s and his team’s results from LIV Golf Nashville will be invalidated. This means that any points, prize money, or accolades earned by McDowell and the Smasher GC during that tournament will be retrospectively revoked.
With no wins so far this year and not participating in the LIV Greenbrier, the golfer will undoubtedly have to improve his gameplay for the next tournament, as the 2024 LIV season is nearing its end. The Smashers will undoubtedly miss their star player in the upcoming event, and fans will eagerly await news of McDowell’s replacement. Who do you think should fill in for McDowell at the Greenbrier? Let us know in the comments section.
Photo from Brooks Koepka Instagram
