Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios revealed on Wednesday he tested positive for cocaine and was provisionally suspended from tennis.
The 31-year-old Australian was beaten by Novak Djokovic in the 2022 singles final, but has played just two Grand Slam events since. He’s now ranked 919th after a series of injuries.
Kyrgios posted details of the case on social media.
“I recently failed a drug test in Mallorca after testing positive for cocaine,” he wrote, citing a lower level tournament in June. “I made a huge mistake and take full responsibility for it.”
Cocaine is banned as a doping substance during competitions, with lower sanctions possible when used away from events.
Kyrgios has detailed struggles with mental health in the past, exacerbated by drinking and drug use. He said it has been difficult coming to terms with being near the end of his career after two years of injuries.
“At times I’ve felt helpless and alone. None of that excuses what I did,” he said.
Kyrgios got a wild card to play doubles at Wimbledon last month and lost in the first round with partner Alexander Bublik.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) will prosecute the case and said the player’s sample was taken on June 22 and the positive test was confirmed on July 17, after Kyrgios played at Wimbledon.
A mandatory provisional suspension was applied on Aug. 4 and has not been appealed by Kyrgios, the ITIA added.
Discussion about this post