Italian Pissilli tests positive for drugs

ITALIAN golfer Alessandro Pissilli has tested positive for the use of a banned substance.

Pissilli, who plays on the Italian pro tour, tested positive for the diuretic Finasteride at the Omnium National Championship on June 29.

Golf has come under increased pressure to introduce random drug testing after South African veteran Gary Player claimed at the Open last month that some golfers were taking performance-enhancing drugs.

Finasteride is used to treat hair loss but can also mask steroid use.

“The presence of Carbossi Finasteride has been found in the blood of Alessandro Pissilli,” a statement from the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) read.

The sample was the first of its kind to be taken from a professional golfer in Italy.