Denis Cotterell, an experienced Australian coach working with the Chinese Swimming Association, has strongly rejected claims of systemic state-run doping within Chinese swimming. Cotterell, known for coaching multiple Olympic gold medalist Grant Hackett and previously working with Chinese swimmer Sun Yang, expressed disbelief at suggestions of orchestrated doping.

In response to recent revelations of 23 Chinese swimmers testing positive for the prescription heart drug trimetazidine (TMZ), Cotterell emphasized that his experience with Chinese swimming has not revealed any evidence of systemic doping. He highlighted the rigorous measures and commitment to clean sport that he has witnessed firsthand during his association with Chinese swimmers for over a decade.

Cotterell's comments come amidst controversy surrounding the handling of the positive drug tests, with world governing bodies accepting China's explanation that the swimmers inadvertently ingested TMZ from food consumed during a 2020 meet. Despite concerns raised by some organizations, including the United States Anti-Doping Agency, Cotterell supports China's position and defends the integrity of Chinese swimmers.

While acknowledging the disappointment and challenges faced by clean athletes, Cotterell emphasizes empathy for the affected swimmers and calls attention to the importance of handling such situations with sensitivity and fairness. He remains resolute in his support for Chinese swimming and advocates for the athletes' integrity amid the unfolding controversy.