Nick Kyrgios provisionally suspended after positive cocaine test
ITIA said the sample from 22 June at Mallorca contained benzoylecgonine; Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended since 4 August.
Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended after a urine sample he provided on 22 June at the Mallorca tournament tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) said. Kyrgios has been under a temporary suspension since 4 August and is currently barred from competing in or attending events organized by the ATP and WTA.
What the suspension means
The ITIA confirmed the presence of benzoylecgonine in the sample and said Kyrgios has the right to appeal the provisional suspension; so far he has not filed an appeal. While the suspension is in force, the 31-year-old cannot play, act as a coach, or be present at Grand Slam tournaments and other ATP and WTA competitions.
Kyrgios addressed the situation on Instagram, admitting he made "a huge mistake" and saying he takes "full responsibility." His post acknowledged the positive test and the temporary ban.
The suspension comes in a season in which Kyrgios has struggled with knee and wrist injuries. According to records, he has played only four singles matches this year. His most recent appearance was at Wimbledon, where he competed in the doubles draw alongside Alexander Bublik and they were eliminated in the first round.
Formerly ranked No. 13 in the world, Kyrgios now faces the disciplinary process administered by the ITIA, which could include a hearing and potential additional penalties depending on the outcome of any investigation or appeal.
Photo: press material from the event
