Australian tennis player Max Purcell has been banned for 18 months by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) for exceeding the allowable limit of an intravenous infusion, despite the substances themselves being permitted under WADA rules. The ITIA's investigation was triggered by text messages exchanged between Purcell and another player, revealing attempts to conceal the treatment and justify the infusion.
Purcell's violation stemmed from an infusion exceeding 100ml, a breach of anti-doping regulations, even if the substances contained were WADA approved. The ITIA emphasized that the rules extend beyond prohibited substances.
Purcell stated the infusion, administered at a medical facility before the start of his season, was unintentional and provided no performance-enhancing benefits. He expressed relief that the matter is concluded.
Text messages obtained by the ITIA revealed Purcell's attempts to avoid record-keeping of the infusion and to find ways to justify it, including fabricating illness. This evidence played a crucial role in the investigation initiated based on intelligence from another case.
While the maximum penalty was two years, Purcell received an 18-month ban. The ITIA highlighted the negligence and fault on Purcell's part. Sport Integrity Australia has issued warnings to athletes about the potential doping violations associated with IV treatments exceeding 100ml.