Hope Solo tested positive for a prohibited substance during a June 15 drug test, but the U.S. Anti-Doping Association (USADA) let her off with just a warning after she claimed a medication was responsible for the positive test.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper tested positive for Canrenone, which is prohibited by USADA, WADA, and FIFA.
USADA explains why she got off:
Canrenone is classified as a Specified Substance, and therefore the presence of Canrenone in an athlete’s sample can result in a reduced sanction. Solo was taking a prescribed medication, in a therapeutic dose under the care of a physician. The medication when metabolized resulted in the adverse analytical finding.
Solo defended herself with the following statement:
“I took a medication prescribed by my personal doctor for pre-menstrual purposes that I did not know contained a diuretic. Once informed of this fact, I immediately cooperated with USADA and shared with them everything they needed to properly conclude that I made an honest mistake, and that the medication did not enhance my performance in any way. As someone who believes in clean sport, I am glad to have worked with USADA to resolve this matter and I look forward to representing my country at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.”
Diuretics are often taken by people looking to flush their system after taking PEDs. Athletes are advised to consult USADA before taking any medication to avoid a positive drug test. USADA is raising suspicion by accepting this explanation, especially with the Olympics beginning in the coming weeks.
Photo credit: John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE
