Nick Kyrgios receives provisional ban after cocaine metabolite found in test
Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended after a sample taken at the Mallorca Open tested positive for a cocaine metabolite.
A drug sample collected from Nick Kyrgios at the Mallorca Open on 22 June was found to contain benzoylecgonine, indicating cocaine use. The International Tennis Integrity Agency responded by issuing a provisional suspension effective 4 August, which prevents Kyrgios from competing, coaching, or attending any ATP or WTA sanctioned tournaments, including the Grand Slams. In an Instagram post, Kyrgios described the incident as a "huge mistake," accepted full responsibility, and linked it to the mental and physical toll of recent knee and wrist injuries.
He also announced a 28-day break from social media and public appearances to focus on his well-being. Kyrgios, 31, has played only four singles matches this season and most recently lost in the first round of Wimbledon doubles with partner Alexander Bublik. The substance is listed as a prohibited stimulant by the World Anti-Doping Agency, though reduced sanctions may apply for out-of-competition findings. Kyrgios has not filed an appeal against the provisional ban.
Why it matters
The suspension removes a high-profile player from competition and highlights anti-doping enforcement in tennis.
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