The tennis world has been caught in a whirlwind of controversy with doping cases stealing the spotlight. After Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek’s doping sagas shook the community, yet another case has surfaced, bringing Australian star Max Purcell into the conversation. Purcell claimed that he “volunteered” to disclose information about an unintentional violation to the ITIA—a move that’s sparked both debate and surprising solidarity. And here’s the twist: Purcell is finding an unexpected wave of support from fans and peers alike. Many are calling for his ban to be lifted, arguing his transparency deserves recognition rather than punishment. The latest to step up? Tennis stalwarts Boris Becker and Shelby Rogers.

In a statement released by ITIA on December 23, it was revealed that Purcell had accepted a suspension after admitting to violating Article 2.2 of the Tennis Anti-Doping Program “relating to the use of a Prohibited Method.” ITIA revealed that the suspension came into effect on December 12. However, the exact duration of this suspension is not known as of yet. Now, as he faces suspension and will not be able to appear for the Australian Open too, he is getting immense support from the fraternity. The latest to chime in are Becker and Rogers. 

The former player took to her Instagram and commented on a video shared by Tennis Channel over Purcell’s case. Sharing her frustration, Rogers wrote, “Makes no sense and zero consistency in consequences, beyond frustrating.” Responding similarly to the case, Becker also shared his perspective. “Personally, I wish his provisional suspension starts after the Aussie Open! Didn’t @iga_swiatek choose her time of suspension…” he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). Remember, the Australian ATP star and the two-time Grand Slam-winning doubles player earlier said that he volunteered to share the information with the ITIA. 

Sharing a post on his Instagram, Purcell revealed that he had “unknowingly received an IV infusion of vitamins above the allowable limit of 100 ml.” Purcell also shared that he informed the IV clinic that the infusion needed to be below 100 ml. However, his medical records highlighted that he received more than the prescribed levels. “I volunteered this information to the ITIA and have been as transparent as possible in trying to put this whole situation behind me. I look forward to being back on the court soon,” he said earlier. The latest remarks from Shelby Rogers and Boris Becker, meanwhile, come at a time when the ITIA has been accused of preferential treatment toward high-ranked players.

Remember, it was revealed that Jannik Sinner tested positive twice for low levels of a metabolite of clostebol during Indian Wells. Similarly, for Swiatek, it was found that she tested positive for low levels of Trimetazidine also known as TMZ, in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024. While the Polish star faced only a one-month suspension and was allowed to compete in tournaments like the WTA Finals and the BJK Cup, Sinner faced no such consequences. Ulitmately, both their cases were declared unintentional.

Interestingly, Swiatek faced 22 days of her suspension ahead of the tournament in Riyadh, and the remaining 8 days after the competition in Malaga. Now, with Purcell in a similar situation, tennis experts are expressing their disappointment highlighting the contradictions that took place.  Besides the experts, there is yet another player who has been extremely impacted by the decision. He is none other than Max Purcell’s doubles partner, Jordan Thompson.

When Jordan Thompson blasted Max Purcell’s suspension decision

Jordan Thompson and Max Purcell proved their camaraderie and skills on the courts last season. They did not just lift the title in the doubles category at the US Open but also performed remarkably at the ATP Finals where they reached the semi-finals. But as they looked to amass more accolades in the Australian Open, the ITIA ruling shattered their hopes. The decision meanwhile, received huge criticism from Thompson. 

Commenting on the case, Thompson said, “It wasn’t great news for me and Maxy, especially Max, I think it’s a bit of a joke, but there’s not a lot I can do about it. I don’t think he’s quite happy and neither am I to be honest.” When quizzed if the process needed reviewing, Thompson added, “When you look at guys testing positive and then you have Max taking just too much in an IV bag, it’s a head scratcher.”

With the Australian Open around the corner, it would be interesting to see if the controlling agencies will reconsider their decision and allow the Australian star to return to the courts anytime soon. What are you thoughts on the issue? Let us know in the comments section.