Max Purcell has been reinstated to Australia’s Davis Cup team following the completion of an 18-month suspension for an anti-doping violation. The 28-year-old doubles specialist was named in captain Lleyton Hewitt’s squad set to face Poland in the World Group 1 tie scheduled for September 19-20 at Brisbane’s Pat Rafter Arena.

Purcell, who holds Grand Slam titles from Wimbledon 2022 and the 2024 US Open in men’s doubles, had been sidelined since December 2024 after accepting a provisional suspension under the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s (ITIA) Tennis Anti-Doping Programme. The ban stemmed from his use of an intravenous vitamin infusion exceeding the allowable annual limit of 100 milliliters. Purcell explained that the infusion occurred while he was ill on holiday in Bali and was administered unknowingly by a doctor, with all substances involved listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s approved list.

While initially given a two-year sanction, Purcell’s penalty was reduced by 25 percent due to his cooperation and substantial assistance in the investigation. Throughout the suspension, Purcell faced significant personal challenges, including the development of nervous and anxious tics and difficulties with memory and eating, which he shared publicly. Fellow Australian players such as John Millman and Jordan Thompson—Purcell’s doubles partner at the US Open—expressed support, emphasizing that Purcell had no prohibited substances in his system and that the breach appeared unintentional.

Since returning to competition in June, Purcell has made a quiet but impressive comeback, including a singles victory at a minor event in China. Despite his current ATP ranking of No. 803, his strong Davis Cup doubles record of 9-2 makes him a valuable asset for Australia as they seek to advance toward next year’s title.

Hewitt’s team also includes Alex de Minaur, aiming to rebound from a disappointing US Open showing, alongside James Duckworth, rising talent Rinky Hijikata, and Adam Walton, who may make his Davis Cup debut.

Australia will face a Polish squad led by Kamil Majchrzak, ranked No. 73 in the world, who defeated de Minaur earlier this year on grass in the ‘s-Hertogenbosch ATP final. Notably absent from Poland’s lineup is their top player Hubert Hurkacz, following a history of injuries. Hurkacz’s absence could improve Australia’s chances in the upcoming tie.