Nick Kyrgios, a former Wimbledon finalist, has received a provisional suspension from tennis after testing positive for cocaine. The 31-year-old Australian player disclosed his situation on social media, admitting to a significant error, shortly before the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed his suspension.
The positive test occurred during an ATP 250 event in Mallorca in June. Subsequent tests conducted at a World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) laboratory last month confirmed the presence of benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, in his system. Under ITIA regulations, a provisional suspension is mandatory for such positive tests, although Kyrgios retains the right to appeal the decision.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Kyrgios offered apologies to his family, fans, and sponsors. He acknowledged his actions without offering excuses, though he did mention that his recent struggles with injuries had impacted him both mentally and physically. Kyrgios wrote, “I recently failed a drug test in Mallorca after testing positive for cocaine. I made a huge mistake and I take full responsibility for it.”
He further expressed regret, stating, “I’m sorry to my fans, my family, my sponsors and everyone close to me. Above all, I’m sorry to the kids who follow me. I know the example this sets and I’m deeply disappointed in myself.” Kyrgios elaborated on the context of his situation, noting that the past few years of injuries have taken a considerable toll. He described feeling “helpless and alone” as his body has not been able to perform as his mind expects, and coming to terms with the potential end of his career has been challenging.
Despite these personal struggles, Kyrgios maintained that they do not excuse his actions. He also indicated that this event has served as a “wake up call.” For the next 28 days, he plans to step away from social media and public life to focus on his well-being, requesting privacy for himself and his family during this period. He concluded his statement by committing to “do the work and come back better.”
The ITIA’s statement confirmed an unspecified provisional suspension for Kyrgios, with the duration dependent on whether the substance was consumed in or out of competition. Cocaine is listed as a stimulant and substance of abuse on the Wada Prohibited List, banned in competition under the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme. If taken out of competition, reduced sanctions may apply for substances of abuse.
The provisional suspension for Kyrgios has been in effect since 4 August 2026. The ITIA noted that Kyrgios has the right to appeal the suspension but has not done so to date. His sample was provided on 22 June 2026, and the presence of benzoylecgonine was confirmed on 17 July 2026.
Previous cases involving similar substances offer some context. In 2017, British No 1 Dan Evans received a 12-month ban after testing positive for cocaine during the Barcelona Open. However, Wada rules have since been updated, now stipulating a three-month suspension for out-of-competition offences. This ban can be further reduced to one month if the athlete agrees to participate in an approved rehabilitation programme, a path taken by South Africa fast bowler Kasigo Rabada after his positive cocaine test last year.
Kyrgios has been a notable figure throughout his career, which saw him reach the Wimbledon final in 2022, where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic. His highest world ranking was 13 in 2016. In recent years, injuries have limited his participation in tournaments. He has not competed in a Grand Slam since the 2025 Australian Open, although he did take part in the “Battle of the Sexes” against Aryna Sabalenka in Dubai last December.
Currently, Kyrgios holds a world ranking of 919th. He was granted a wild card to play doubles at Wimbledon last month, where he and partner Alexander Bublik were eliminated in the first round. He has played only four singles matches this season.
The tribunal assessing his case will determine the final outcome of his ban, during which he is prohibited from playing in or attending tournaments. The ITIA’s regulations ensure that the nature of the substance mandates a provisional suspension.
Source: theguardian.com