Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios, a former Wimbledon finalist, made a public announcement on Wednesday disclosing his positive drug test for cocaine, leading to his provisional suspension from the sport. Kyrgios, aged 31, faced Novak Djokovic in the 2022 singles final but has since participated in only two Grand Slam events due to various injuries, resulting in a current ranking of 919th.
Taking to social media, Kyrgios admitted to failing a drug test in Mallorca, revealing his cocaine use during a lower-level tournament in June. He openly acknowledged his error, stating, “I recently failed a drug test in Mallorca after testing positive for cocaine. I made a huge mistake and take full responsibility for it.”
Competing under the influence of cocaine violates anti-doping regulations, with consequences varying based on the timing of usage during events. Kyrgios, known for his struggles with mental health exacerbated by alcohol and substance abuse, expressed the challenges he faces as his tennis career nears its end following a prolonged period of injuries. Despite feeling isolated and overwhelmed at times, he emphasized that his personal struggles do not excuse his actions.
Recently, Kyrgios received a wild card to participate in the Wimbledon doubles event alongside partner Alexander Bublik, where they were eliminated in the initial round. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is overseeing Kyrgios’s case, confirming that his drug test sample was obtained on June 22 and the positive result was verified on July 17, subsequent to his Wimbledon appearance.
An immediate provisional suspension was enforced on August 4, which Kyrgios has not contested, according to ITIA statements.