The International Tennis Integrity Agency announced on Monday that Max Purcell, a two-time Grand Slam doubles champion, has been voluntarily suspended for breaching anti-doping regulations.
Purcell, ranked 12th globally in doubles, admitted to using a “prohibited method” and requested a provisional suspension starting December 10.
The ITIA confirmed the suspension would officially begin on December 12, with any time served being credited towards a potential future sanction.
Details surrounding the breach remain undisclosed. However, the ITIA clarified that Purcell’s suspension prohibits him from participating in, coaching, or attending any tennis events sanctioned by governing bodies or national associations.
This ruling effectively excludes the 26-year-old from competing in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park this January.
Purcell, who secured the 2022 Wimbledon doubles title with compatriot Matt Ebden and clinched the US Open doubles crown this year alongside Jordan Thompson, is under investigation for a method-related infraction.
Tennis Australia emphasized the breach involved a prohibited method rather than a banned substance.
“The International Tennis Integrity Agency confirmed the breach relates to the use of a prohibited method, rather than the presence of a prohibited substance,” Tennis Australia stated, as reported by Australian media. “As the matter is currently under investigation, it is inappropriate to comment further at this time.”
The ITIA has previously dealt with high-profile cases, including those of world number two Iga Swiatek and top-ranked Jannik Sinner.
Sinner, who tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March, was exonerated, though the World Anti-Doping Agency has appealed the decision.
Swiatek tested positive for a banned heart medication in August but received a one-month sanction after the ITIA ruled the violation unintentional.
Both players are anticipated to participate in the Australian Open, set to begin on January 12.
