Nick Kyrgios banned after positive drugs test

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has tested positive for cocaine and has been provisionally suspended.

The controversial player took to social media to announce the situation.

"I wanted you to hear this from me first," he wrote on social media. "I recently failed a drug test in Mallorca after testing positive for cocaine. I made a huge mistake and I take full responsibility for it.

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

The International Tennis Integrity Unit (ITIA) has provisionally suspended the Australian as of August 4, and he cannot play, coach at, or attend any of tennis’ WTA, ATP or grand slam events.

Adding to his statement, which was posted to Instagram, Kyrgios wrote: “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 my career has been harder than I ever imagined.

“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.”