Nick Kyrgios has been suspended by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) after testing positive for cocaine, placing the Australian tennis star at the centre of yet another major controversy.
The suspension, which began on August 4, prevents the 31-year-old from competing in or attending tennis tournaments while his case goes through the disciplinary process. Kyrgios has accepted responsibility for the positive test, describing it as a “huge mistake” and apologising to his fans, family, sponsors and young supporters.
“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 last played competitively at Wimbledon in July 2026, when he partnered with Alexander Bublik in the men’s doubles. The pair lost their first-round match 6–3, 6–4 to Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic.
Kyrgios has had a difficult few years because of serious injuries, including a major problem with his right wrist that required surgery, as well as ongoing knee problems that led to four operations. These injuries have kept him off the court for long periods and made it difficult for him to return to his best form, with him even revealing he felt “helpless and alone”.
“I’m not going to make excuses, but I do want to give some context about where I’ve been.
“The last couple of years of injuries have taken a huge toll on me, both physically and mentally.
“My body hasn’t been able to do what my mind expects it to do, and coming to terms with being near the end of my career has been harder than I ever imagined… letting go of something that has been my whole life is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to face.
“At times I’ve felt helpless and alone. None of that excuses what I did.”
