Tennis star Nick Kyrgios tests positive for cocaine, stepping away from ‘public life’

Nick Kyrgios, one of the “bad boys” of tennis, has been suspended after testing positive during an in-competition drug test for cocaine. The positive drug test came aat an ATP 250 tournament in Mallorca back in June.

According to tennis reporter Ben Rothenberg, Kyrgios’ provisional suspension began on August 4, and Kyrgios has yet to appeal.

After a lengthy statement posted to social media, it appears unlikely that Kyrgios will choose to do so.

Kyrgios apologized to his family and fans while taking ownership for his mistake, but also acknowledged some mental health struggles and said he will be stepping away from “public life” in order to get himself better.

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Nick Kyrgios Issues Apology

“I’m sorry to my fans, my family, my sponsors, and everyone close to me,” Kyrgios wrote. “Above all, I’m sorry to the kids who follow me. I know the example this sets and I’m deeply disappointed in myself.

“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. My body hasn’t been able to do what my mind expects it to do, and coming to terms with being near the end of career has been harder than I ever imagined.”

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Kyrgios then acknowledged he will be stepping away for nearly a month to focus on his well-being, and hopes people are mindful of his privacy during that time.

“I’ve always said I didn’t choose tennis, tennis chose me. But letting go of something that has been my whole life is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to face. At times I’ve felt helpless and alone. None of that excuses what I did. However, the good news is that this has given me a wake up call. For the next 28 days, I’ll be stepping away from social media and public life while I focus on getting myself right.

“I’d ask that people respect my privacy during that time, and most importantly the privacy of my family. I’m sorry. I’ll do the work and come back better.”

It is great to see Kyrgios taking accountability for his mistake, and hopefully he is truly able to get the help he is seeking.

If you or someone you know is struggling, SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP (4357)) is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service for those facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

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