Nick Kyrgios provisionally suspended after testing positive for cocaine, admits ‘huge mistake’
Tennis star Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for cocaine. Kyrgios admitted to the mistake and expressed regret, citing the physical and mental toll of his career injuries.
Why it matters
The suspension of a high-profile athlete highlights the ongoing challenges of substance abuse and mental health in professional sports.
Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios said on Wednesday (August 19, 2026) he had made “a huge mistake” after he was provisionally suspended for testing positive for cocaine.
The 31-year-old, who reached the final at Wimbledon in 2022, failed a doping test during an ATP event in Mallorca on June 22.
“On 17 July 2026, a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory confirmed the presence of benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine,” the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) said.
Mr. Kyrgios, whose undoubted talent has been overshadowed by a suspect temperament and injuries, wrote on Instagram that he took “full responsibility”.
“I’m sorry to my fans, my family, my sponsors and everyone close to me. Above all, I’m sorry to the kids who follow me. I know the example this sets and I’m deeply disappointed in myself.” Mr. Kyrgios said.
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