Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has been hit with a provisional suspension by the International Tennis Integrity Agency after testing positive for cocaine.
The ITIA confirmed that a sample provided by the 31-year-old at an ATP 250 event in Mallorca on June 22 returned traces of benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite.
Under tennis anti-doping rules, the suspension has been officially in place since August 4.
Kyrgios broke the news to his followers on Instagram, writing that he wanted his supporters to hear it from him first.
“I made a huge mistake and I take full responsibility for it,” Kyrgios posted, adding that he was deeply disappointed in himself.
Kyrgios also issued apologies to his family, fans, sponsors, and especially younger athletes who look up to him.
“Above all, I’m sorry to the kids who follow me. I know the example this sets and I’m deeply disappointed in myself,” he said.
While he stressed that he was not making excuses, Kyrgios pointed to the heavy mental and physical toll that a long string of injuries has taken on him recently.
He admitted that confronting the end of his playing career has been a deeply painful and isolating experience.
“The last couple of years of injuries have taken a huge toll on me, both physically and mentally,” he said.
“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.
“I’ve always said I didn’t choose tennis – tennis chose me. But 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.
Kyrgios was quick to clarify that nothing excuses his violation, writing “None of that excuses what I did”.
He stated that the positive test served as a wake-up call and announced he will step away from public life and social media for the next 28 days to focus entirely on his well-being.
Under the terms of his provisional suspension, Kyrgios is barred from playing, coaching, or attending any sanctioned tennis events, including Grand Slams.
