Australian doubles ace Max Purcell accepts 18-month ban for anti-doping breach

Max Purcell, a Grand Slam doubles champion, faces an 18-month doping ban after testing positive for a prohibited substance during recovery in Bali last year, reportedly due to anxiety from exceeding the allowed dosage. The tennis star accepted a voluntary provisional suspension but had his penalty reduced by 25% for full cooperation with the investigation. The case underscores broader anti-doping rules that extend beyond prohibited substances, with top players like Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek also facing doping allegations recently.