LIV Golf has suspended Graeme McDowell for one tournament and imposed a $125,000 fine after the golfer violated the tour’s anti-doping policy, the organization announced on Sunday.
The violation occurred during June’s LIV Nashville event, where McDowell reportedly used a decongestant medication that contained a banned substance. As part of the punishment, LIV Golf not only suspended McDowell but also disqualified both his individual performance and his team’s results from the Nashville tournament.
McDowell had finished tied for 42nd place individually, while his team, Smash GC—led by captain Brooks Koepka—placed 12th out of 13 teams.
In response to the suspension, the 45-year-old Northern Irishman issued a statement on social media, acknowledging the situation and expressing regret.
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He will be absent from next weekend’s LIV Greenbrier event but will be eligible to return for the LIV Chicago tournament in September.
This suspension comes during what has been McDowell’s best season since joining the LIV Golf circuit. Currently ranked 23rd in the tour standings, he has secured three top-10 finishes this season, showcasing some of his strongest performances in recent years.
With McDowell sidelined, Smash GC has yet to announce who will replace him for the upcoming LIV Greenbrier event. The suspension marks a significant setback for both McDowell and his team as they navigate the remainder of the season without one of their key players.
