Singaporean swimmer Joseph Schooling, who became a household name in Singapore after defeating Michael Phelps in the 100-meter butterfly to win gold at the Rio 2016 Olympics has admitted to using cannabis.
In Singapore, it is illegal to consume marijuana even if it is not in the country. If caught, an offender could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 Singapore dollars ($14,300 USD).
The 27-year-old Schooling admitted to having consumed cannabis in May while he was competing in Vietnam, winning two golds and a bronze medal at the Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi. Schooling addressed his actions in an apology from his social media account.
“I gave in to a moment of weakness after going through a very tough period of my life,” Schooling said on his Instagram account. “I am sorry that my actions have caused hurt to everyone around me, especially to my family and the young fans who look up to me. I won’t let you down again.”
The defense ministry said Schooling was formally warned and “will be placed on a supervised urine test regime for six months.” Schooling will also not be allowed to leave Singapore for the rest of his compulsory military service.
Schooling’s military service is expected to last until 2024, which means he will not be able to compete in next year’s Asian Games or the World Aquatics Championships next Summer in Fukuoka, Japan.
The Defense Ministry also issued Schooling a formal letter reiterating the country’s “strict zero-tolerance policy towards drug abuse.”
“Those who are suspected of, or confessed to, abusing drugs will be placed on supervised urine test regimes as part of the treatment and rehabilitation process,” the ministry said. “All personnel who test positive during this regime will be charged and sentenced accordingly.”
Swimming’s governing body in Singapore may also take disciplinary action against. In a statement, the Singapore Swimming Association said they will “review the facts of the case and determine appropriate steps to take.”
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