Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Culture

Nick Kyrgios suspended after testing positive for cocaine

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended since August 4 after testing positive for cocaine. The 31-year-old apologized to his fans, saying he'd "made a huge mistake."

Nick Kyrgios, a former Wimbledon finalist and top-ranked Australian tennis player, has been provisionally suspended from the sport after testing positive for cocaine at an ATP tournament in Mallorca in June, according to the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). The 31-year-old athlete's sample, which was tested by a WADA lab on July 17, contained benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, which is classified as a banned stimulant and substance of abuse on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List and is prohibited in competition.

Since the provisional suspension began on August 4, Kyrgios is not permitted to participate in, coach, or attend any events organized or sanctioned by World Tennis, the WTA, ATP, the Grand Slams, or any national association. In a statement posted on social media, Kyrgios expressed remorse, acknowledging he made a "huge mistake" and deeply apologizing to his fans, family, sponsors, and those close to him.

He also expressed disappointment in himself for setting an example through his actions. Kyrgios, known for his powerful serve, has won seven singles titles on the ATP tour and reached a peak ranking of 13 in 2016. However, he has struggled with multiple injuries, which have hindered his ability to return to his former form. Currently ranked 919th in the world, Kyrgios has not appealed the provisional suspension and has decided to take a break from social media and public life for 28 days to focus on his recovery.

Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

This story

This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.

Read the original at dw.com →

More in Culture

More from Wednesday 19 August →