Nick Kyrgios provisionally suspended after testing positive for cocaine

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from professional tennis after testing positive for cocaine.

The 31-year-old was suspended on August 4, 2026, by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) after a sample provided during a tournament in Mallorca, Spain, in June 2026, tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.

Kyrgios has admitted to making a “huge mistake” and accepted responsibility for the failed test.

In a lengthy Instagram statement, the former Wimbledon finalist apologised to his fans, family, sponsors and supporters, particularly young fans who look up to him.

Abdul Mumin reflects on journey from Sawaba streets to Girona

“I’m not going to make excuses, but I do want to give some context about where I’ve been,” Kyrgios wrote.

He said his struggles with injuries over the past two years had taken a major physical and mental toll and made it difficult to accept that his playing career could be nearing its end.

“The last couple of years of injuries have taken a huge toll on me, both physically and mentally. None of that excuses what I did,” he added.

Kyrgios, who once reached a career-high ranking of world No. 13, has dropped to 919th following his injury problems and has played just four singles matches this season.

He returned to Wimbledon in July 2026, after receiving a wildcard for the doubles event, partnering Alexander Bublik, but the pair lost in the first round.

The provisional suspension prevents Kyrgios from competing in or coaching at events organised or sanctioned by tennis governing bodies.

He has the right to appeal but had not done so at the time of the ITIA announcement.

The Australian also said he would take a month away from social media and public life to focus on himself.

FKA/JKB

I can’t teach players on poor pitches- Tinkler slams Ghana’s stadiums