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Tennis Integrity Agency Provisional Suspends Nick Kyrgios After Cocaine Test

8/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The International Tennis Integrity Agency provisionally suspended Australian Nick Kyrgios on 4 August 2026 after a positive cocaine test.
He gave a sample at the ATP 250 Mallorca Open on 22 June 2026, which a lab confirmed contained benzoylecgonine on 17 July 2026.
Kyrgios posted an Instagram apology on 19 August 2026, took responsibility and said he would pause social media for 28 days.
During the suspension he may not play, coach or attend any World Tennis, ATP, WTA, Grand Slam or national-association events.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 Festina doping scandal, uncovered during the Tour de France, forced the French Cycling Federation to admit widespread drug use. The probe uncovered 35 positive tests, spurring the International Olympic Committee to help launch the World Anti-Doping Agency in 1999, now with 180 signatory nations. Today, the Tennis Integrity Agency suspended Australian Nick Kyrgios on 4 August 2026 after a positive cocaine test, barring him from ATP and Grand Slam tournaments. The recurrence underscores how anti-doping bodies continually expand enforcement, compelling athletes to confront stricter penalties and prompting sponsors to reassess support.

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Story summary

The International Tennis Integrity Agency provisionally suspended Australian Nick Kyrgios on 4 August 2026 after a positive cocaine test.
He gave a sample at the ATP 250 Mallorca Open on 22 June 2026, which a lab confirmed contained benzoylecgonine on 17 July 2026.
Kyrgios posted an Instagram apology on 19 August 2026, took responsibility and said he would pause social media for 28 days.
During the suspension he may not play, coach or attend any World Tennis, ATP, WTA, Grand Slam or national-association events.

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