Isaac Cooper’s gold medal prospect will miss the upcoming Birmingham Commonwealth Games for disciplinary reasons related to “drug use,” says Swimming Australia.
SA made the announcement on Wednesday, with the 18-year-old being sent home from the pre-Games training camp in France.
Cooper had to make his debut at the Games in four events: the 50m backstroke, the 50m butterfly and the 50m freestyle.
“Cooper has been sent home from the Dolphins’ training camp after some wellness challenges, including the use of medications, ”SA said in a statement.
“He has acknowledged his mistakes and accepted the consequences, and Swimming Australia will continue to support him as he tackles these challenges.
“The well-being of our athletes remains our top priority.
“Swimming Australia is vigilant in educating athletes of their obligations under the National Integrity Framework and will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure that they meet the highest standards and behaviors when representing Australia.”
An SA spokesman said Cooper did not want to comment on the issue.
SA also announced Wednesday that paranedator Tim Disken will miss the Games due to an injury after recent surgery.
The Birmingham Commonwealth Games begin on 28 July.