Nick Kyrgios Suspended from Tennis After Positive Cocaine Test

Nick Kyrgios Faces Provisional Suspension After Testing Positive for Cocaine at Mallorca Open

Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for cocaine. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that the 31-year-old Australian player provided a sample during the Mallorca Open on June 22 that was subsequently found to contain benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.

According to reports, the sample was collected during the ATP 250 tournament in Spain and later tested in the United States. The ITIA stated, “Cocaine is a stimulant and substance of abuse on the WADA Prohibited List and is banned in competition under the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme. If taken out of competition, reduced sanctions apply for substances of abuse.”

Under the terms of the provisional suspension, which has been in place since August 4, Kyrgios cannot play, coach at or attend Grand Slams or any events sanctioned by the men’s and women’s tennis tours pending the outcome of a tribunal. The ITIA stated that Kyrgios is able to appeal the suspension, “but has not done so to date.” Kyrgios faces a maximum ban of three months, but could be suspended for up to four years.

Nick Kyrgios Cites Physical Toil and Career End in Public Apology

Following the disclosure, Kyrgios shared a personal statement via his Instagram Story on Wednesday, August 19, acknowledging the infraction and taking full responsibility.

"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."

Nick Kyrgios, Tennis Player, via US Magazine

Kyrgios offered public apologies to his fans, family, sponsors, and everyone close to him, expressing particular regret toward children who follow him. He provided context regarding his mental and physical state, pointing to a prolonged battle with injuries.

"The last couple of years of injuries have taken a huge toll on me, both mentally and physically. My body hasn’t been able to do what my mind expects it to do, and coming to terms with being near the end of my career has been harder than I ever imagined. At times I’ve felt hopeless and alone."

Nick Kyrgios, Tennis Player, via US Magazine

Kyrgios has dealt with a rash of injuries in the latter stages of his career after reaching the Wimbledon final in 2022, and has played just four matches in 2026. He previously underwent a full wrist reconstruction in September 2023.

Sanction Details and Immediate Next Steps

In response to the disciplinary action and public scrutiny, Kyrgios announced plans to step away from public life.

"However, the good news is that this has given me a wake up call. For the next 28 days, I’ll be stepping away from social media and public life while I focus on getting myself right. I’d ask that people respect my privacy during that time, and most importantly the privacy of my family."

Nick Kyrgios, Tennis Player, via US Magazine

Kyrgios concluded his statement, saying, “I’m sorry. I’ll do the work and come back better.”