Key Takeaways
-
Kyrgios tested positive for a cocaine metabolite in Mallorca on June 22
-
Khachanov: “He reaps what he sows” in response to the case
-
The Australian accepted responsibility, calling it a “huge mistake”
Kyrgios at the center of controversy
Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a cocaine metabolite, admitting his use was a “huge mistake.” The incident has reignited debate about his outspoken history on doping cases, where he often criticized fellow players such as Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek.
Khachanov’s blunt assessment
Karen Khachanov offered little sympathy when asked about the situation. “I would say that Kyrgios is the type of person who constantly attracts negativity and attention,” he said. The Russian pointed to Kyrgios’ months of attacking other players and questioning tennis authorities. “He always loved criticizing others, even when he wasn’t playing, tweeting constantly and so on. And now that it has backfired on him, what can I say? He reaps what he sows,” Khachanov added.
No sympathy from the Russian
Khachanov made clear that he does not feel sorry for Kyrgios. “So honestly, I’m not surprised at all. I don’t even feel sorry for him. It’s a logical consequence. He got caught doing what he wanted,” he stated. His comments underline the irony of Kyrgios now facing scrutiny similar to that which he once directed at others.
Remembering past criticisms
The Russian recalled Kyrgios’ remarks about refusing to play doubles with athletes involved in doping cases. “Last year he was writing about Sinner or other players, saying something like he didn’t play doubles with people who took doping substances. And in the end, look what happened. It backfired on him,” Khachanov said.
Distinctions between cases
While Kyrgios has admitted responsibility for his cocaine use, Sinner’s Clostebol case was ruled unintentional due to contamination, and Swiatek’s situation also centered on accidental ingestion. Khachanov’s criticism is not about equating the cases but about highlighting Kyrgios’ willingness to judge others before finding himself in a similar spotlight.
ATP U.S. Open - Karen Khachanov's projected path
Khachanov at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2026
Ranked world no.50, Khachanov has managed to achieve an overall 17-18 win-loss record in 2026. Khachanov is currently competing at the U.S. Open where he conquered the world no.59 Roman Andres Burruchaga 6-3 6-0 6-1.
Karen Khachanov will come up against the world no.4 Felix Auger-Aliassime in the 2nd round. The head to head is 2-2.
The Russian won 7 titles in his career: 3 on hard courts and 4 on indoor courts. (See the list of his titles)
