Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for a cocaine metabolite during a tournament in June.
The Australian tennis player provided a sample at the Mallorca Open on 22 June. The test later detected benzoylecgonine, a metabolite produced when cocaine is broken down by the body.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended since 4 August. The 31-year-old had the right to appeal the suspension but has not done so, according to the agency. Under the provisional ban, Kyrgios is unable to compete in, coach at or attend Grand Slam tournaments or other events sanctioned by the men’s and women’s professional tennis tours while the case is pending before a tribunal.
Kyrgios acknowledged the failed test in a statement on Instagram, describing it as “a huge mistake” and saying he takes “full responsibility” for his actions. The Australian said the past few years, which have been dominated by knee and wrist injuries, had taken a significant physical and mental toll.
“My body hasn’t been able to do what my mind expects it to do,” he wrote. Also adding that coming to terms with being “near the end” of his career had been more difficult than he expected. However, Kyrgios stressed that his struggles did not excuse his actions.
He also apologised to his fans, family, sponsors and supporters, particularly children who look up to him. He also said he would step away from social media and public life for 28 days to focus on his wellbeing.
Cocaine Prohibition
Cocaine is classified by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) as a prohibited stimulant and substance of abuse. Anti-doping rules can provide reduced sanctions when an athlete tests positive for a substance of abuse as a result of use outside competition.
Kyrgios’ case could be more complicated because the sample was collected while he was competing at the Mallorca Open. He played singles at the tournament and lost in the first round to Adam Walton.
The failed test is another setback for a player whose career has been increasingly affected by injuries. Kyrgios has played only four singles matches this season and most recently appeared in men’s doubles at Wimbledon. However, he and Alexander Bublik were eliminated in the first round.
The Australian has previously been outspoken on anti-doping issues, particularly regarding cases involving Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. He strongly criticised the handling of both cases, describing the situation as damaging to the credibility of tennis.
Kyrgios has also remained one of the sport’s most controversial figures. Throughout his career, he has received numerous fines and disciplinary penalties for incidents. This includes racquet smashing, arguing with officials and using offensive language on court. Despite the controversies, Kyrgios has enjoyed significant success. He has won seven ATP singles titles and reached the Wimbledon singles final in 2022, where he lost to Novak Djokovic. He also won the 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles title alongside compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis.
The latest suspension now leaves Kyrgios facing an uncertain future as he awaits the tribunal’s decision. His career has already been disrupted by recurring injuries, and the anti-doping case adds another major challenge. Especially as he considers how much longer he can continue competing at the highest level.
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