Nick Kyrgios Tests Positive for Cocaine, Faces Provisional Suspension

Tennis player Nick Kyrgios, currently ranked world No. 919 and a former Wimbledon finalist, faces a provisional suspension from the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) following a positive test for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine. The positive test occurred during a control in Mallorca.

“

I wanted to let you know this first by my own voice. Recently I failed a drugs test in Mallorca after testing positive for cocaine. I made a big mistake and I take full responsibility for it.

Kyrgios, who has been sidelined by injuries for several months, shared details of the situation on his Instagram account. He issued a statement expressing deep disappointment in himself and apologizing to his fans, family, sponsors, and those who look up to him. "I made a big mistake and I take full responsibility for it," Kyrgios wrote, acknowledging the implications of his actions.

“

I am sorry to my fans, my family, my sponsors and everyone close to me. Above all, I am sorry to the kids who look up to me and have me as an example.

While not offering excuses, Kyrgios provided context for his struggles, particularly over the last two years. He described the significant physical and mental toll of his injuries, stating that accepting the proximity to the end of his career has been more challenging than he ever imagined. He reflected on his relationship with tennis, noting that leaving the sport, which has been his life, is one of the most difficult challenges he has faced, leading to feelings of helplessness and isolation.

“

I will not make excuses, but I do want to give some context to what I have been going through. The last two years of injuries have affected me greatly, both physically and mentally.

Kyrgios emphasized that none of these circumstances justify his actions but characterized the positive test as a "wake-up call." He announced a 28-day hiatus from social media and public life to concentrate on his recovery and well-being. He requested privacy for himself and his family during this period, vowing to "do the work necessary" to return stronger.

“

accepting that I am close to the end of my career has been more difficult than I ever imagined.