U.S. Sprinter Tyson Gay failed multiple drug tests this year, according to The Associated Press citing three sources. (The sources wished to remain nameless due to the ongoing investigation.)
Gay received a positive test in June while at the U.S. Championships. The sprinter finished first in the 100 and 200-meter dashes.
The 30-year old admitted to another positive earlier this month from a test a test he took on May 16.
Gay was previously known as a runner who prided himelf of being clean. He took part in the “My Victory” program where athletes voluntarily receive strong testing to prove their not doping. His tests were negative.
Representatives for the sprinter did not respond immediately when contacted by the AP.
Gay will already forego competing at the world championships in August. If his “B” sample confirms the positive test he received at nationals, his first place finishes would be taken away.
In addition, first-time offenders for using banned substances usually get a two-year ban. However, if an athlete works with the USADA—which Gay is reportedly doing—they usually get a reduced sentence.
According to one source, if a player tests positive a few times within a short period of time that may mean they were taking something and were not aware.
"The additional positive sample is consistent with him taking responsibility," USADA CEO Travis Tygart said. "He should be commended for that and for removing himself from world championships, which we all should appreciate. The sample was expected, as he works with us for the fair resolution based on the rules, given the fact of his case."
Gay is an accomplished sprinter. He took home gold medals in the 100, 200 and 4x100 relay in the 2007 World Championships.
"I don't have a sabotage story. I don't have any lies. I don't have anything to say to make this seem like it was a mistake or it was on USADA's hands, someone playing games," Gay said during a phone interview about two weeks ago. "I don't have any of those stories. I basically put my trust in someone and I was let down."
Reports have connected the Olympian to anti-aging doctor Clayton Gibson out of Atlanta. According to the AP, an email received by the wire service did not acknowledge Gay as the doctor’s patient.
Gay’s positive tests come at a time when runners Veronica Campbell-Brown, Asafa Powell and Sherone Simpson all tested positive for banned substances.
Olympic champion Usain Bolt was asked about the string of positive tests that have infiltrated the sport of track in the past few months.
"Definitely, it's going to set us back a little bit," said Bolt. He also said he was clean.
"So I'm just going to continue running, using my talent and just trying to improve the sport," he said.
