Singapore’s First Olympic Gold Medalist Suspended for Cannabis Use

Joseph Schooling, Singapore’s only Olympic champion, has been effectively suspended from training and competitions after admitting to using cannabis while abroad. Schooling won the gold medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, beating his childhood idol Michael Phelps and setting three records—national, Asian, and Olympic—by swimming the 100-meter butterfly in just 50.39 seconds.

Military Service and Suspension

In January, Schooling began his mandatory military service, which is required for all male citizens in Singapore. He was granted regular leave to train and compete. However, after one such short-term break, which was given to prepare for the Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam, Schooling was found to have used cannabis.

Now, the 27-year-old athlete is banned from attending training sessions and participating in competitions for the duration of his military service. This suspension could potentially end his sports career after his service is complete. Additionally, Schooling is now required to undergo regular drug testing for six months.

Strict Drug Laws in Singapore

Singapore enforces some of the world’s strictest drug laws. Citizens can be punished for using illegal substances even if the use occurs overseas. Those convicted of cannabis use face up to 10 years in prison and heavy fines. Anyone caught with more than 1.1 pounds of cannabis or 0.5 ounces of heroin can face the death penalty. Conscripts who test positive for drugs may be sentenced to up to nine months in jail.