Norman Urges Drug Testing

First, it was Tiger Woods calling for a crackdown on illegal clubs. Now, Greg Norman wants all golfers to be subjected to random drug testing.

While stressing that he doesn’t think illegal substances are being used, Norman said Tuesday that testing would eliminate any lingering doubts that long-hitting players are pumping up pharmaceutically.

“Because of the peak performance these athletes are trying to get into, are they using performance-enhancing drugs?” he asked. “I doubt it, because golf doesn’t allow that to happen. You need to be very calm and within yourself.”

In April, three-time major champion Nick Price speculated some players would resort to steroids to keep up with stronger competitors and the trend toward lengthening courses. Last month, drug tests were conducted on the European Tour for the first time after the final round of the French Open.

The lack of a widespread testing policy is a major impediment to golf being included in the Olympics.