Former Wimbledon runner-up Nick Kyrgios announced on Wednesday that he had tested positive for cocaine and had been provisionally suspended from tennis. The 31-year-old Australian, who lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2022 singles final, has participated in only two Grand Slam tournaments since then. He currently holds the 919th ranking due to a string of injuries.
Kyrgios disclosed the details of the incident on social media, admitting to failing a drug test in Mallorca where he tested positive for cocaine during a lower-level tournament in June. He expressed regret, stating, “I made a significant error and accept full responsibility for it.” Cocaine is prohibited as a performance-enhancing substance during competitions, with lighter penalties applicable when used outside of events.
Having previously struggled with mental health concerns exacerbated by alcohol and drug usage, Kyrgios acknowledged the challenges of accepting the potential end of his career following two years of injuries. Despite feeling helpless and isolated at times, he emphasized that his actions were inexcusable.
During Wimbledon last month, Kyrgios received a wild card to compete in doubles but was eliminated in the initial round alongside partner Alexander Bublik. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is handling the case, revealing that Kyrgios’ sample was collected on June 22, and the positive result was confirmed on July 17, post his Wimbledon appearance.
A mandatory provisional suspension was enforced on August 4 and has not been contested by Kyrgios, as confirmed by the ITIA.