'테니스계 악동' 키리오스, 코카인 양성 반응…잠정 출전 정지

Tennis world shakes as Nick Kyrgios, 31-year-old Australian, faces potential suspension for cocaine use. The dramatic incident saw the player storm off the court, throw his racket, and engage in a heated exchange with officials. BBC and The Guardian reported that Kyrgios tested positive for a cocaine metabolite called benzyl ethanamide in his doping sample collected during the May 6-13, 2023, men's ATP Tour event in Majorca, Spain.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) suspended Kyrgios for an indefinite period from April 4, and he has not contested the decision. Kyrgios will be barred from participating in ATP and Grand Slam tournaments and coaching activities until his final disciplinary action is confirmed. The banned substance is illegal according to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) as it is a performance-enhancing drug and a prohibited substance.

The outcome of the case remains uncertain, but Kyrgios' recent doping breach could be subject to retrospective action if his use was during the competitive period. In a public apology on social media, Kyrgios admitted, "I made a big mistake. I take full responsibility." He added, "Recent injuries have emotionally and physically devastated me.

Accepting the reality that my playing career is nearing its end was difficult." However, Kyrgios did not justify his actions and apologized to fans, family, sponsors, and especially young fans who look up to him. Kyrgios, who has risen to a world ranking of 13, previously won the 2022 Wimbledon quarterfinals but faced numerous penalties for bad behavior on court, including racket damage, profanity, and excessive protests.

He also faced legal trouble after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend in 2023, though no criminal charges were brought. Kyrgios has also been criticized for misogynistic comments and sharing posts from controversial influencer Andrew Tate, leading to backlash in 2024. The irony of this situation lies in Kyrgios' consistent criticism of other players for doping issues.

He was a vocal critic of Yannick Noah and Ian Westhead during the WADA's anti-doping controversy. Now, Kyrgios finds himself facing his own doping suspension.