Nick Kyrgios Suspended After Positive Cocaine Test as Tennis Star Admits ‘Huge Mistake’

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from professional tennis after testing positive for cocaine, with the former Wimbledon finalist admitting he made a “huge mistake” and accepting responsibility for the incident.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that Kyrgios tested positive during an ATP event in Mallorca on June 22, 2026. A World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)-accredited laboratory later detected benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, in his sample.

Kyrgios, 31, responded to the suspension with an apology posted on Instagram, saying he was disappointed in himself and aware of the impact his actions could have on those who look up to him.

“I made a huge mistake,” Kyrgios wrote. “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.”

The Australian said years of injury struggles had taken a serious physical and mental toll on him but acknowledged that his challenges did not excuse the failed test.

“None of that excuses what I did,” he said, adding that the situation had served as a “wake-up call” and promising to work toward a return.

Kyrgios rose to worldwide attention with his powerful serve, explosive style and unpredictable personality. He won seven ATP singles titles and reached a career-high world ranking of 13 in 2016.

His biggest career achievement came at Wimbledon in 2022, when he reached his first Grand Slam final before losing to Novak Djokovic in four sets. However, injuries and limited appearances have prevented him from reaching those heights again, with the Australian now ranked 919th in the world.

The tennis star has battled several injury problems, including issues affecting his elbow, wrist, hip, knees, shoulders and collarbone. He underwent major surgery on his right wrist in 2024, further limiting his time on court.

The ITIA said Kyrgios’ suspension has been active since August 4 and means he cannot compete, coach or attend events organised or sanctioned by major tennis bodies, including the ATP, WTA, Grand Slam tournaments and national associations.

Despite his struggles, Kyrgios remains one of the few players to have defeated all members of tennis’ famous “Big Four” — Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray — during his career.