Tennis player Nick Kyrgios suspended after testing positive for cocaine

“Nick Kyrgios, a former world No. 13 from Australia, has been provisionally suspended after a drug test at the Mallorca Open on June 22 detected benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) says he could face up to a four‑year ban, though a finding that the use occurred out of competition would limit the sanction to three months. Kyrgios issued an Instagram statement apologising, acknowledging mental and physical strain from injuries, and announced a 28‑day break from public life. Expert Analysis: The suspension underscores the growing scrutiny of doping violations beyond performance‑enhancing drugs, potentially prompting U.S. sponsors and broadcasters to reassess endorsement contracts with athletes tied to reputational risk. A high‑profile case like Kyrgios may also influence American anti‑doping policies and public attitudes toward substance abuse in elite sport.”