Australian tennis star Max Purcell has accepted a provisional doping suspension after admitting to breaching anti-doping rules relating to a prohibited method.
The two-time doubles grand slam winner's suspension came into effect on 12 December, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced on Monday.
The 26-year-old, currently ranked world No12 in doubles, voluntarily accepted the suspension earlier this month.
According to the ITIA statement, "Purcell has admitted to a breach of Article 2.2 of the TADP relating to the use of a Prohibited Method, and requested to enter into a provisional suspension on 10 December 2024."
Max Purcell has accepted the ban
PA
The ITIA has not specified the length of the potential ban or provided details of the breach beyond it being a prohibited method.
The agency confirmed that time served under the provisional suspension will be credited against any future sanction.
The suspension means Purcell will not be able to compete at the Australian Open, his home Grand Slam tournament.
The ban comes just months after his triumph at the US Open doubles tournament, where he claimed victory alongside fellow Australian Jordan Thompson in September.
The provisional suspension prevents Purcell from participating in any ATP, ITF and Tennis Australia events.
Max Purcell won the US Open doubles title this year
PA
According to a Sport Integrity Australia guide, prohibited methods typically involve masking or enhancing performance.
These methods can include manipulation of blood and blood components, as well as chemical and physical manipulation of drug-testing samples.
Gene and cell doping are also listed among the potential prohibited methods that could constitute a breach of anti-doping rules.
Purcell's latest controversy comes after significant success in grand slam doubles competitions.
He claimed the Wimbledon crown in 2022, partnering with fellow Australian Matthew Ebden.
Together with his recent US Open victory and Wimbledon title, Purcell has established himself as one of Australia's most successful doubles players.
Max Purcell won the Wimbledon doubles title in 2022
PA
Purcell is the latest tennis star to be provisionally suspended over anti-doping breaches.
Jannik Sinner tested positive twice for an anabolic steroid in March, but avoided a ban as he successfully argued it was a result of contamination through his physiotherapist.
Iga Swiatek also accepted a one-month suspension last month for testing positive for a banned substance.
