Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for cocaine, dealing another setback to the Australian’s troubled return to the sport.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that Kyrgios tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, following an anti-doping sample collected at an event in Spain on June 22.
The mandatory provisional suspension has been in effect since August 4, according to the ITIA. Kyrgios has the right to challenge the decision but has not yet lodged an appeal.
Cocaine is classified as a stimulant and substance of abuse under the World Anti-Doping Agency’s prohibited list and is banned during competition under the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme.
Kyrgios, 31, has accepted responsibility for what he described as a “huge mistake” and apologised to his family and friends in a statement shared on Instagram.
The Australian said the physical and mental toll of several years of injuries had contributed to the difficult period he has experienced away from the court.
He also announced plans to withdraw from social media and public life for 28 days as he deals with the situation.
The suspension represents a further setback for a player whose career has been repeatedly interrupted by injuries and controversies.
Kyrgios became one of tennis’ biggest personalities through his explosive playing style and outspoken character, reaching the Wimbledon final in 2022 before losing to Novak Djokovic.
Once ranked as high as world No. 13, the Australian has struggled to maintain his place on the professional circuit in recent years.
His lack of regular competition has been particularly evident this season. Kyrgios has played only four singles matches in 2026 and has fallen to 919th in the world rankings.
He was given a wild card to compete in doubles at Wimbledon this year but exited in the opening round.
The latest development now leaves Kyrgios’ immediate future in professional tennis uncertain as he considers whether to appeal the provisional suspension and continues to deal with the physical and personal challenges that have disrupted his career.
