Darts Star Banned Over Drugs Test Has Suspension Lifted After 'Misunderstanding'

A darts player who was provisionally suspended by the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) after a failed doping test has had his ban overturned on appeal.

Austria's Rusty-Jake Rodriguez returned an abnormal result after being randomly tested during the Players Championship 24 event, which took place on August 25.

Rodriguez, a current PDC tour card holder, was banned from participating or attending any events sanctioned by the DRA, pending a full investigation into the matter.

The 24-year-old has now confirmed that, due to a 'misunderstanding', his suspension has now been lifted, allowing him to participate in events once again.

Rodriguez faced Luke Littler at Players Championship 2 earlier this year (Image: PDC)

Rodriguez is ranked in 141st place on the PDC Order of Merit ahead of his second of two years as a tour card holder next season.

"After several intense weeks, I'm happy to announce that my suspension is officially over and I'm now able to participate in all national and international darts competitions without restrictions," the Austrian posted to Facebook.

"The matter has been fully clarified, and existing misunderstandings and grievances have been resolved thanks in part to the fair and constructive co-operation with the DRA.

Image: Facebook/Rusty-Jake Rodriguez

"Now I'm looking forward again to the board, to the next challenges, to what's to come. I'm really looking forward to it!

"A big thank you to the PDPA, my management and everyone who supported me during this time - athletically, personally and mentally."

Rodriguez's return to action means he can compete in the PDC tour card holder qualifier next month to earn a spot at the 2026 World Championship.

He has appeared twice at Alexandra Palace previously, most recently losing 3-0 to Cameron Menzies in the first round of the 2024 tournament.

His older brother, Rowby-John, is also a professional darts player, and while he has enjoyed more success in the PDC - including two final appearances in the World Cup of Darts - is currently not a tour card holder.