The International Testing Agency, which manages the anti-doping program for the Games under the authority of the Olympic Council of Asia, confirmed that the adverse analytical finding stems from a urine sample gathered on September 17, 2026, in Nagoya, Japan—two days prior to the official opening of the multi-sport event.
Provisional Suspension Issued in Nagoya
Prohibited Masking Agent and Diuretics
Furosemide is classified by the World Anti-Doping Agency under the S5 list of diuretics and masking agents.
Under global anti-doping codes, the substance is prohibited at all times due to its capacity to accelerate fluid elimination and facilitate rapid weight loss.
Immediate Restrictions Before China Clash
Following the notification, Opatniputh was subjected to an immediate provisional suspension. The restriction bars the 19-year-old athlete from competing, training, coaching, or participating in any official capacity at the Asian Games.
Prior to the suspension, Opatniputh was slated to represent Thailand in the women’s team tournament quarterfinals against China on September 22.
CAS Challenge Rights and Ongoing Inquiries
The provisional measure does not constitute a final determination of an anti-doping rule violation.
Under procedural guidelines, the athlete retains the right to request the analysis of her B-sample and can challenge the suspension through the Anti-Doping Division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The International Testing Agency stated that proceedings remain ongoing and declined further comment while investigations continue.
Medal Ambitions and Testing Targets
Opatniputh established herself as a rising competitor on the international circuit after capturing the women’s singles title at the 2023 BWF World Junior Championships in Spokane, Washington, where she defeated Indonesia’s Chiara Marvella Handoyo.
![Photo: spain.ajunews.com [사진=AP연합뉴스]](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2026/09/22/20260922091459852352.jpg)
Entering the Asian Games, she held the No. 18 spot in the world singles rankings and was viewed as a core pillar of Thailand’s medal ambitions.
The International Testing Agency has projected collecting approximately 2,350 samples throughout the duration of the 2026 Asian Games, which run from September 19 through October 4.
Further updates regarding the status of the disciplinary proceedings and potential B-sample analysis are expected as the tournament progresses.
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