Max Purcell, a two-time Grand Slam doubles champion from Australia, has accepted an 18-month suspension for breaching anti-doping rules. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced the decision on Tuesday.
Purcell admitted to violating rules concerning the use of a "prohibited method." This involved receiving an intravenous infusion of vitamins exceeding the allowed limit of 100 milliliters within a 12-hour period.
He had previously entered into a provisional suspension in mid-December 2024.
The ITIA investigation found that Purcell received IV infusions over 500 milliliters twice in late 2023. Purcell stated he had informed the clinic that he was a professional athlete and the infusion needed to be less than 100 milliliters.
Intelligence reviewed by the ITIA included text messages sent by Purcell to another player. These messages reportedly show Purcell asking clinic staff not to keep receipts and discussing ways to justify receiving infusions, including feigning illness. Purcell also researched whether the infusions were prohibited by WADA.
Despite these actions, the ITIA did not find evidence meeting the threshold for intentional violations. His full cooperation and information sharing during the investigation resulted in a 25% reduction to the standard two-year sanction. Purcell will lose all earnings from his first violation on December 16, 2023, until providing a negative doping control sample on February 3, 2024.
Time served under his provisional suspension counts toward the ban. His suspension is set to conclude on June 11 next year. While banned, Purcell is prohibited from coaching or attending any tennis event authorized or sanctioned by ITIA members or any national association.
Purcell has waived his right to appeal the decision. WADA and Sports Integrity Australia maintain the right to appeal.
ITIA Chief Executive Karen Moorhouse commented that the case shows anti-doping rules extend beyond positive substance tests. She added that the ITIA uses intelligence from various sources to protect those covered by the rules and ensure fair play.
Purcell expressed the difficulty of the process in a statement released Tuesday. “This case has been going on for months, seriously affecting my quality of life,” Purcell said. “From being unable to eat and sleep properly, to refusing to be by myself, to developing nervous and anxious tics which I still currently battle day to day. I’m so glad this is finally over for me and I can move on with my life.”
