Tennis Star Nick Kyrgios Suspended After Positive Cocaine Test

Tennis star Nick Kyrgios has been suspended from professional play after testing positive for cocaine. The Australian player acknowledged the positive test on Instagram, admitting to a "big mistake" and taking responsibility for his actions.

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I made a big mistake and I have to take responsibility. I don't want to make any excuses but the injuries I've suffered over the last few years have taken a heavy toll on me, physically and mentally. I want to apologize to my family, my fans, and my sponsors.

Kyrgios stated that he used cocaine during a tournament in Mallorca. He attributed his lapse to significant physical and psychological toll from recent injuries. "I don't want to make any excuses, but the injuries I've suffered over the last few years have taken a heavy toll on me, physically and mentally," he wrote. He also extended apologies to his family, fans, and sponsors.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that Kyrgios has been suspended since August 4, 2026. While the exact length of the suspension remains undisclosed, the ITIA noted that cocaine is a stimulant and a substance of abuse on the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) prohibited list. The agency indicated that sanctions for substance abuse outside of competition may be milder.

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I understand what example this sets and I am deeply disappointed in myself.

Kyrgios, who reached a career-high ranking of 13 and was a Wimbledon finalist in 2022, has a history marked by controversies and scandals. He announced he would be taking a 28-day break from social media and public life to focus on his well-being. "I understand the example this sets and I am deeply disappointed in myself," Kyrgios added.

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Cocaine is a central stimulant and a substance of abuse that is on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)'s prohibited list. If cocaine is taken out of competition, milder sanctions apply for substances of abuse.