John Millman Urges Action on ‘Triple Standards’ After Max Purcell’s ‘Outrageous’ 18-Month Doping Suspension

Australian tennis legend John Millman has expressed his outrage over what he perceives as “triple standards” within the sport, calling for a “complete reform” of the WADA disciplinary system following the 18-month doping suspension handed to Max Purcell.

Purcell’s ban was issued on Tuesday afternoon (AEST) for receiving intravenous infusions exceeding 500mL, significantly over the allowable 100mL threshold.

In an interview with 9News on Tuesday night, Millman labelled the ban as “shocking” and “absurd,” considering that all the vitamins administered were listed as approved by WADA. Purcell received the infusions from a doctor while he was unwell on a holiday in Bali.

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In stark contrast, Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek received considerably lighter penalties for positive tests for prohibited substances.

“Both players tested positive unintentionally, but if we’re discussing double standards—if there’s such a thing as triple standards, I believe that’s what we’ve got here,” Millman said during his appearance on Nine’s Today program on Wednesday morning.

“I believe there should be a thorough reform of the punishment system. While I have been a strong supporter of Jannik, it raises the question of whether all players are judged equally. It certainly appears that some of the top players are receiving preferential treatment.

“Max was tested and found to have no banned substances in his system. The intravenous treatment exceeded the allowable limit, yet the ITIA confirmed that there were no illegal substances involved.

“This raises serious doubts over whether the 18-month suspension can be deemed fair.”

The WTA and ATP are currently engaged in a legal battle with the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which has filed a lawsuit against both tours, the International Tennis Federation (ITF), and the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) concerning several player-related issues, including prize money, endorsement restrictions, and concerns surrounding doping.

Purcell’s decision to fully cooperate and share information with the ITIA helped him receive a 25 per cent reduction in his suspension.

On social media, Purcell expressed that the investigation had led to him experiencing “nervous and anxious tics” throughout the process.

“This matter has persisted for months, severely impacting my quality of life,” he detailed.

“I struggled to sleep and eat properly, avoided being alone, and battled persistent anxious tics throughout every day I’d face. The situation was all-consuming, making it hard to enjoy anything without worrying about the case and the potential consequences. I was fully cooperative with the ITIA.”

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“I’m relieved that this ordeal is finally concluded, allowing me to move forward with my life.”

Millman expressed his hope that the tennis community would support the 27-year-old.

“An absence from the game is always significant, but 18 months at this stage in his career can be incredibly challenging,” he remarked.

“I hope the Federation offers him solid support; the impact goes beyond just the physical absence from the game, evident in the mental strain Max Purcell has visibly experienced.”

“I’m confident the Davis Cup team will rally around him, and I hope the Federation provides backing as well.”