Nick Kyrgios is once again at the center of a tennis doping controversy, voicing his frustration after Goncalo Oliveira tested positive for methamphetamine and was provisionally suspended.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed that Oliveira, a Portuguese-born player representing Venezuela, provided a positive in-competition sample at an ATP Challenger event in Mexico on November 25, 2024. Without a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) for methamphetamine, Oliveira was suspended as of January 17, 2025, banned from playing, coaching, or attending professional tournaments.
Kyrgios Rips into Tennis’ ‘Hypocrisy’ Over Doping Bans
Never one to hold back, Kyrgios reacted furiously to the news, calling out what he sees as inconsistencies in tennis’ anti-doping punishments.
Taking to Instagram, the Aussie star sarcastically remarked:
“Steroids are fine but this is wild. Tennis world gone mad.” 😆😆😆
His comment was a not-so-subtle reference to the ongoing Jannik Sinner doping saga, which Kyrgios has repeatedly criticized.
Sinner’s Doping Scandal: The Root of Kyrgios’ Frustration
Sinner, the current World No. 1, tested positive for clostebol—an anabolic steroid—twice in March 2024. However, he avoided a ban after arguing that the substance entered his system through a physio’s medical spray.
While the ITIA ruled that Sinner bore ‘no fault or negligence’, he was stripped of ranking points and prize money from Indian Wells. But the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has since appealed the decision, arguing that Sinner should face further consequences.
Oliveira: ‘I Will Prove My Innocence’
While Kyrgios mocked the system, Oliveira took a more measured approach, vowing to fight his provisional suspension.
“This is a truly difficult moment for me – one that feels harder than the many injury setbacks I’ve faced throughout my career.”
“I have always competed with the utmost integrity, respect, and love for the game of tennis.”
“I am fully committed to proving my innocence and ensuring that the truth is brought to light.”
Kyrgios vs. the Tennis Establishment – Again
Kyrgios’ frustration stems from what he sees as an unfair system—where some players get off lightly, while others face harsher consequences.
- Oliveira tests positive for meth? Immediate suspension.
- Sinner tests positive for steroids? No ban, just lost ranking points.
It’s a debate that continues to divide the tennis world, and Kyrgios isn’t backing down from his belief that the system is broken.
With WADA’s appeal in motion, could Sinner still face a punishment? And will Oliveira successfully fight his ban? One thing is certain: Kyrgios will have plenty to say about it.