Tsitsipas Speaks on Kyrgios's Cocaine Ban: 'I Expected This'

Stefanos Tsitsipas, former world No. 3, made surprising statements about Nick Kyrgios's provisional suspension related to cocaine. In an interview at the 2026 US Open, Tsitsipas bluntly said he had long expected this, hinting that Kyrgios's off-court behavior was no secret among professional tennis players. Kyrgios, the 2026 Wimbledon finalist, was provisionally suspended by the ITIA in early August after testing positive for cocaine at a Spanish tournament in June. The Australian quickly acknowledged a 'huge mistake' and took full responsibility. However, the sanction could be up to four years if aggravating circumstances are found, while experts expect a lighter punishment if Kyrgios can prove out-of-competition use unrelated to performance. Tsitsipas, who has a tense relationship with Kyrgios after their five-set Wimbledon 2026 clash, did not hesitate to share his views. 'I'm not surprised. I know things happening away from the court,' he said. This immediately sparked controversy, with some accusing Tsitsipas of adding fuel to the fire while others appreciated his candor. Legally, cocaine is classified by WADA as a 'Substance of Abuse'. Under the latest rules, if Kyrgios proves out-of-competition use unrelated to performance, the ban could be just three months. However, testing positive at a tournament – i.e., in-competition – could push the ban to 2-4 years. This is the key factor determining the future of the 31-year-old. Kyrgios has not played regularly in recent years due to knee and wrist injuries. A heavy ban would effectively end his career. Even a light ban, maintaining form after a long layoff is a major challenge, especially for a game relying on serve and hand feel – elements that deteriorate quickly with inactivity. Tsitsipas, while in his prime, also faces public pressure over his remarks. Some commentators suggest he should focus on his own game rather than commenting on a colleague. But given his open nature and insider status, Tsitsipas may simply be revealing what the tennis world has long known. The case is under investigation, with a final ruling from the ITIA expected within six months. Whatever the outcome, this is a wake-up call for players about the line between talent and discipline, and between on-court glory and off-court pitfalls.