Kyrgios suspended by integrity agency after cocaine test
The International Tennis Integrity Agency confirmed the provisional suspension following a positive sample from the Mallorca Open, citing the mental toll of career transition.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has provisionally suspended Nick Kyrgios following a positive test for cocaine metabolites. The decision confirms the presence of benzoylecgonine, a banned stimulant, in a sample collected during an ATP 250 event in Mallorca in June. The World Anti-Doping Agency laboratory identified the substance on July 17, leading to the suspension taking effect on 4 August.
Kyrgios, 31, issued a public apology on Instagram, admitting to a “huge mistake” and accepting full responsibility for the violation. The former world number 13 stated he made no excuses for the breach of tennis anti-doping rules, which classify cocaine as a substance of abuse banned in competition. He expressed regret to his fans, family, sponsors, and the younger generation following him.
In his statement, the Australian tennis player provided context regarding his recent struggles, citing the physical and mental toll of persistent injuries. He described the difficulty of coming to terms with the end of his career, noting that his body had failed to meet his expectations. Kyrgios admitted to feeling “helpless and alone” as he navigated the transition away from professional tennis, a sport he described as having chosen him rather than vice versa.
The provisional suspension prohibits Kyrgios from playing, coaching at, or attending any events organised by World Tennis, the WTA, the ATP, the Grand Slams, or any national association. He has not appealed the ruling and announced plans to step away from social media and public life for 28 days. He stated this period would be dedicated to focusing on his recovery and “getting myself right”.
Kyrgios last competed in men’s doubles at Wimbledon, where he and partner Alexander Bublik were defeated in the first round. He has played only four singles matches this season. The athlete has previously spoken openly about mental health challenges, including a period of contemplation regarding suicide and time spent in a psychiatric hospital.
