Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for cocaine during the Mallorca Open in June.
The former world number 13 provided a sample on 22 June that was later found to contain benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that the Australian has been provisionally suspended since 4 August.
The Nick Kyrgios case will now proceed under tennis’ anti-doping rules, with the 31-year-old facing restrictions while his case is considered by a tribunal.
Kyrgios accepts responsibility
Kyrgios has not appealed against his provisional suspension so far. In a lengthy statement posted on Instagram, he admitted making “a huge mistake” and said he accepted full responsibility for his actions.
The Australian said persistent injuries over recent years had taken a significant physical and mental toll, making it difficult for him to cope with what he described as the possibility of his career nearing its end.
“My body hasn’t been able to do what my mind expects it to do,” Kyrgios wrote.
“None of that excuses what I did.”
He also apologised to his supporters, family, sponsors and young fans, saying he understood the example his actions could set.
Kyrgios said he would step away from social media and public life for 28 days to concentrate on his wellbeing.
Provisional suspension prevents tournament participation
Under the provisional suspension, Kyrgios is unable to compete, coach at or attend Grand Slam tournaments or other events sanctioned by the men’s and women’s professional tours while the case remains unresolved.
Cocaine is classified by the World Anti-Doping Agency as a stimulant and substance of abuse.
Athletes can receive reduced sanctions when cocaine is detected in a sample taken out of competition. However, Kyrgios’ sample was collected during a tournament in which he competed in singles.
He was eliminated in the first round of the Mallorca Open by fellow Australian Adam Walton.
The ITIA said Kyrgios has the right to challenge the provisional suspension but had not done so as of its announcement.
Injury problems have limited Kyrgios’ season
The suspension comes during a difficult period in Nick Kyrgios’ career.
The Australian has played only four singles matches this season after struggling with knee and wrist problems in recent years.
His most recent appearance came in the men’s doubles at Wimbledon, where he partnered Alexander Bublik. The pair were beaten in the opening round.
Kyrgios has won seven ATP Tour singles titles and reached his first Grand Slam singles final at Wimbledon in 2022, where he lost to Novak Djokovic.
He also won the 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles title alongside compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Kyrgios has faced controversy throughout career
Kyrgios has been one of tennis’ most controversial players, regularly attracting attention for his behaviour on court.
He has received numerous fines for incidents including racquet smashing, audible obscenities and disputes with officials.
In 2023, Kyrgios admitted assaulting a former girlfriend two years earlier but avoided a criminal conviction.
He has also faced criticism over comments that were described as misogynistic. In 2024, he shared a post from controversial influencer Andrew Tate before later saying he had taken steps to distance himself from Tate.
Kyrgios has also been outspoken about anti-doping cases involving other leading players, including Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek.
His own suspension now places his future in the sport under renewed scrutiny as the anti-doping process continues.
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Image: Nick Kyrgios competing at a tennis tournament.
Image Alt Attribute: Nick Kyrgios during a tennis match before his provisional suspension
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