Nick Kyrgios Accepts One-Month Ban for Positive Cocaine Test

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has accepted a one-month suspension after testing positive for cocaine. The ban follows a provisional suspension that began on August 4, stemming from a sample taken during the Mallorca Open in June, which revealed the presence of benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite.

Kyrgios disclosed to the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) that he had used cocaine at a nightclub in Magaluf on June 20, just two days before his first-round match at the Mallorca tournament, where he lost to fellow Australian Adam Walton.

The ITIA determined that Kyrgios used the substance outside of competition, consulting with an independent expert, which contributed to the reduction of his potential three-month ban to one month after he entered a treatment program. Along with the suspension, Kyrgios will forfeit his prize money of €6,570 (£5,650).

Currently ranked 918th in the world, Kyrgios has had a challenging season, participating in only four singles matches due to ongoing knee and wrist injuries. His last competitive appearance was in the men's doubles at Wimbledon, where he and his partner were eliminated in the first round.

In light of the positive test, Kyrgios announced plans to step away from social media and public life for 28 days to focus on his well-being. He has previously expressed the toll that injuries and personal struggles have taken on him, including mental health challenges.

Despite his controversies, including past fines for on-court behavior and legal issues, Kyrgios has achieved notable success in his career, including seven ATP Tour singles titles and a Wimbledon final appearance in 2022. He also won the Australian Open men's doubles title with Thanasi Kokkinakis in the same year.