Nick Kyrgios handed one-month ban after testing positive for cocaine
Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has accepted a one-month suspension after testing positive for cocaine, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has announced.
The 31-year-old former Wimbledon finalist failed a drug test during an ATP Tour event in Mallorca in June 2026 and was provisionally suspended on August 4.
According to the ITIA, Kyrgios initially faced a three-month suspension but had his ban reduced to one month after agreeing to participate in an ITIA-approved treatment programme.
His suspension ended on September 3, meaning he is now free to return to competitive tennis.
The ITIA said Kyrgios explained that he had used cocaine “socially during a night out”. The agency said his explanation was consistent with the level of cocaine detected in his sample and accepted that the use occurred outside competition, making him eligible for a reduced sanction.
Following the initial announcement of his provisional suspension, Kyrgios admitted that he had made “a huge mistake” and accepted responsibility for the failed test.
“I wanted you to hear this from me first. I recently failed a drug test in Mallorca after testing positive for cocaine,” he said in a statement shared on Instagram.
“I made a huge mistake, and I take full responsibility for it. 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.”
Kyrgios’ first-round defeat to fellow Australian Adam Walton in Mallorca was his most recent competitive singles appearance and one of only four singles matches he has played in 2026.
His career has been hampered by persistent knee and wrist injuries since his run to the Wimbledon final in 2022, with his world ranking subsequently falling to 919.
Reflecting on his struggles, Kyrgios said he would not make excuses for the failed test but acknowledged the impact his physical problems had had on him.
“My body hasn’t been able to do what my mind expects it to, and coming to terms with being near the end of my career has been harder than I ever imagined,” he said.
“At times I’ve felt hopeless and alone. However, the good news is that this has given me a wake-up call.”
Kyrgios also said he would take a 28-day break from social media to focus on his recovery and wellbeing.
“I’m sorry, I’ll come back better,” he added.
