Former World No 1 Vijay Singh pulled out of the Waste Management Phoenix Open before the start on Thursday after admitting he had used a deer antler spray which has previously been found to contain a banned growth hormone.
The 49-year-old Fijian withdrew after issuing a statement in which he said: “While I have used deer antler spray, at no time was I aware that it may contain a substance that is banned under the PGA Tour anti-doping policy.
“In fact, when I first received the product, I reviewed the list of ingredients and did not see any prohibited substance.
“I am absolutely shocked that deer antler spray may contain a banned substance and am angry that I have put myself in this position.
“I have been in contact with the PGA Tour and am cooperating fully with their review of this matter. I will not be commenting further at this time.”
Deer antler spray is manufactured by Sports with Alternatives to Steroids and it has been found to contain the banned IGF-1, a natural anabolic hormone that stimulates muscle growth.
Scientific research has shown that velvet deer antler improves heart strength, stamina, joint health, muscle and strength development plus athletic performance.