Monaco, Aug 13 (AP) - Prominent U.S. Olympic sprinter Fred Kerley is facing a provisional suspension due to "whereabouts failures" under the anti-doping regulations of the sport, as announced by the Athletics Integrity Unit.
In response, Kerley's legal team released a statement through the athlete's social media account on X, emphatically countering the allegations.
"Fred Kerley has already informed the AIU of his intention to contest the claim that he breached anti-doping regulations concerning whereabouts failures," the statement read. "He ardently believes that one or more of the alleged missed tests should be dismissed, either owing to a lack of negligence on his part or due to the Doping Control Officer not acting reasonably to locate him at the specified site."
The statement further elaborated: "Fred will remain silent on the matter for now, respecting the integrity of the process, and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to present his case before the hearing panel."
Kerley has an illustrious career, having secured an Olympic silver medal in the 100 meters at the Tokyo Games and a bronze in Paris last year. Moreover, he has clinched six medals at the track and field world championships.
Echoing resilience, Kerley posted on his account, "You can try to break me in the storm, but all you're doing is giving me a better story at the finish line."
Adding to his challenges, in May, Kerley faced charges in Florida for allegedly punching a female hurdler who also has an Olympic background. This was preceded by a January incident where he was arrested for supposedly hitting a Miami Beach police officer, with law enforcement resorting to using a Taser.
His legal representatives assert his innocence regarding these accusations. (AP)
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