Four-time Grand Slam champion Jim Courier has strongly criticized the suspension handed down to Australian tennis player Max Purcell. Purcell received an 18-month ban for administering intravenous vitamins in a volume exceeding the permitted limit.
“`Why are we suspending players who have done nothing to enhance their performance results?` That`s not just my opinion; that`s according to the head of the anti-doping organization,” Courier stated. “I fail to see the logic in penalizing for intravenous vitamins. While it`s against the current regulations, the rules themselves are what needs changing. This is just absurd!”
Courier contrasted the situation with bans for actual performance-enhancing substances. “Sanctions for using performance-enhancing drugs are understandable. But this situation with Purcell is an overreach,” he argued. “Furthermore, Max was compelled to repay $200,000 in prize money earned at the start of 2024. That feels harsh.”
“Honestly, I`m relieved I`m no longer competing; these rules simply aren`t something I could navigate. Tennis, please address this issue!” the four-time major winner added during an appearance on Tennis Channel.
Marcus Blakely 
Gilbert Pendleton