Nick Kyrgios has had several injury-plagued years. Now he has been provisionally suspended for violating anti-doping rules.
Tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended for violating anti-doping rules. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced this on Wednesday.
According to the agency, the 31-year-old Australian tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, in June during the ATP tournament in Mallorca. According to the ITIA, a laboratory accredited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) confirmed the result on July 17.
Kyrgios took “full responsibility” in a post on Instagram: “I made a huge mistake. I’m sorry to my fans, my family, my sponsors, and everyone close to me. Above all, I’m sorry for the children who look up to me.”
Tennis: Kyrgios could still file an appeal
The former Wimbledon finalist has been provisionally suspended since August 4; according to the rules, he could appeal the decision. He has not yet exercised this right. Cocaine is on the WADA Prohibited List and is not permitted in competition. When taken outside of competition, milder sanctions apply to substances used inappropriately.
The extroverted pro has had years marked by injuries; this season, he has played only four matches on the ATP Tour. In Mallorca, he was eliminated in the first round.
Shortly before the turn of the year, he caused a stir with the “Battle of the Sexes” against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka; he won the match in Dubai in two sets.
