Chinese swimmer Chen Xinyi has failed a doping test at the Rio Olympics, the official Xinhua news agency reported Friday, citing the Chinese Swimming Association (CSA).
She tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, on Sunday, it said. On that day the 18-year-old came fourth in the women’s 100m butterfly final — just 0.09 seconds away from a place on the podium.
Chen has applied to the International Olympic Committee for her B sample to be tested and for a hearing, it added.
Diuretics increase urination rates and can be used as “masking agents” to hide the presence of performance-enhancing substances that are screened for in doping tests.
The CSA “resolutely opposes use of banned substances”, Xinhua cited it as saying in a statement.
“The CSA has taken this matter seriously and demanded full cooperation from Chen in the investigation,” it added. “We will cooperate with the Court of Arbitration of Sport during its investigation and will respect the final ruling by the CAS.”
Chen had been due to take part in the 50m freestyle heats later on Friday.
She first made the headlines when she won gold in the 100 metre butterfly and 50 metre freestyle events at the 2014 Asian Games, with times that set championship records.
Sun served a three-month doping ban in 2014, which was only announced retrospectively by Chinese authorities.
Sources: Xinhua, AFP
