Two-Time Grand Slam Champion Max Purcell Handed 18-Month Suspension
NewsTuesday, 29 April 2025 at 10:45
Two-time Grand Slam champion Max Purcell has accepted an 18-month suspension from the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA).
Purcell is one of the more successful doubles players in recent history, but he will now be forced to take a break from his tennis career after he was handed an 18-month suspension.
The Australian lifted the Wimbledon trophy in 2022 together with compatriot Matthew Ebden, and two years later, he won the US Open with Jordan Thompson. But only weeks after one of his two biggest career triumphs, Purcell learned bad news.
He entered a voluntary provisional suspension after receiving two intravenous infusions of over 500 mL. The World Anti-Doping Code allows athletes to receive a maximum of 100 mL every 12 hours.
Purcell was fully aware of the mistake, which is why he entered the provisional suspension. Now, a few months after the start of his provisional suspension, the ITIA announced his 18-month suspension.
Purcell was supposed to receive a 24-month ban, but because of his full co-operation during the investigation, the Australian's suspension was reduced by 25%. Shortly after his suspension was announced, Purcell posted a lengthy statement on his Instagram account.
"This case has been going on for months, seriously affecting my quality of life. From being unable to sleep and eat properly, and refusing to be by myself, to developing nervous and anxious tics which I still currently battle day to day. I couldn't sit and enjoy anything without the thought of the case and the endless possibilities of what sanction I would receive."
"I was nothing but cooperative with the ITIA. I'm so glad this is finally over for me and I can move on with my life. The ITIA accepted that the infusion over the 100 mL limit was not intentional. It's a case completely on exceeding the allowable limit of volume for an infusion."
"All substances in the infusion were WADA approved and beyond that, it provided me with zero performance enhancing benefit. It was 11 days prior to my first match of the season and was also administered at a 24/7 medical facility, in a third world location after feeling unwell and fatigued from training."
"I have accepted the mistake I made and will make sure I'm even more diligent with everything regarding the integrity of the sport. I pride myself on being a clean athlete and have never been anything but that. Those who know me, know that I take my anti-doping duties very seriously."
"So seriously, that since December 2023, when I was added into the testing pool and asked to provide my whereabouts every single day, I even changed the background lock screen on my phone so I would never forget."
"I'll be able to compete from June 12th 2026. I am excited for the challenge and hope you all get around me for my comeback when it's time! I'd also like to thank everyone for their support - it's meant everything to me. Tune in when Chapter 2 is approaching. Much love."
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