Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios announced on Wednesday that he had tested positive for cocaine and was temporarily banned from tennis. The 31-year-old Australian, who was defeated by Novak Djokovic in the 2022 singles final, has participated in only two Grand Slam tournaments since then. Kyrgios, currently ranked 919th due to various injuries, disclosed the details of the incident on social media.
In his statement, Kyrgios admitted to failing a drug test in Mallorca where he tested positive for cocaine during a lower-level tournament in June. He acknowledged his mistake and took full accountability for his actions. Cocaine is prohibited as a performance-enhancing substance during competitions, with penalties potentially varying for off-competition usage.
Kyrgios, who has previously struggled with mental health issues exacerbated by alcohol and drug misuse, expressed the challenges of accepting the nearing end of his career following two years of injuries. Despite feeling helpless and isolated at times, he emphasized that it did not justify his actions.
Recently, Kyrgios received a wild card to participate in the Wimbledon doubles event but was eliminated in the initial round alongside partner Alexander Bublik. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) will handle the case, confirming that Kyrgios’ sample was collected on June 22 and the positive result was verified on July 17, post his Wimbledon appearance.
A mandatory provisional suspension was enforced on August 4 and has not been contested by Kyrgios, as stated by the ITIA.
