Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has accepted a one-month ban after testing positive for a metabolite of cocaine during the Mallorca Open in June 2026.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced that Kyrgios’ standard three-month suspension was reduced to one month after he established that the drug use occurred socially outside competition and agreed to participate in an approved treatment programme.
His provisional suspension was backdated to August 4, meaning the ban officially expired on September 3, 2026, leaving the 31-year-old eligible to return to competitive tennis.
Kyrgios addressed the matter on Instagram, apologising to his fans, family, sponsors and supporters, particularly children who look up to him.
“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,” he said.
The Australian also spoke about the physical and mental strain caused by persistent injuries, saying the challenges had made it difficult to come to terms with the later stages of his career.
“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,” Kyrgios said.
He added that he would step away from social media for 28 days to concentrate on his recovery and wellbeing.
In addition to the suspension, Kyrgios will forfeit €6,570 in prize money and the ranking points he earned at the Mallorca Open.
His most recent competitive appearance came in the men’s doubles at Wimbledon, where he partnered Alexander Bublik. The pair were eliminated in the first round by Marcelo Arévalo and Mate Pavić.
