Justin Gatlin being investigated after report surfaces new doping allegation

Justin Gatlin, the reigning world 100-meter champion, is facing a new doping allegation.

A recent report from The Telegraph says that associates of Gatlin were approached by undercover reporters about obtaining illegal performance-enhancing drugs. The reporters said the drugs were for an actor working on a film and Gatlin’s associates agreed to help them find some.

Both the United States Anti-Doping Agency and the Athletics Integrity Unit for the International Association of Athletics Federation said they have opened an investigation into Gatlin and the two associates — Gatlin’s coach Dennis Mitchell, and an agent who used to work for Gatlin named Robert Wagner.

Doping investigations are not new territory for Gatlin. In 2006, he served a four-year suspension after testing positive for testosterone, which he said came from a type of cream a massage therapist rubbed onto his leg. He also served a one-year-suspension in 2005.

Gatlin’s agent told The Telegraph that he was not present for any conversations about banned substances with Wagner and Mitchell.

Gatlin most recently took gold at the IAFF World Championships, beating Usain Bolt in Bolt’s final race.