List of Tennis Players Who Smoke Weed

Cannabinoids are among the most common substances in tennis anti-doping cases, yet theyre only prohibited during competition, not year-round Under WADA rules, cannabinoids are prohibited in-competition only, with a threshold of 150 nanograms per milliliter for urinary carboxy-THC Cultural acceptance is rapidly evolving – from Andre Agassis 1997 cover-up to Nick Kyrgios openly discussing marijuana smell at tournaments without career consequences CBD is permitted under WADA rules, but athletes should use caution due to potential THC contamination – players like John Isner have endorsed CBD products for recovery From 2003–2009, 86.5% of sanctioned anti-doping violations in tennis involved men versus 13.5% by women Regulatory tolerance is increasing – sanctions for cannabis are typically 3 months but can be reduced to 1 month with an approved treatment program

Nick Kyrgios exemplifies the shift toward normalized cannabis attitudes in professional tennis. He openly discusses cannabis use and its permissibility under current competition rules, marking a significant cultural change in the sport. Openly acknowledges that cannabis use is permitted outside of competition periods under WADA rules. Publicly addressed marijuana smoke at the US Open in 2022, showing comfort and normalization of the topic among athletes today. Faces no career threats or violations for discussing cannabis, unlike previous generations of players. Represents transparency that reflects the broader acceptance and responsible navigation of cannabis policies in professional tennis.

Casey Kania’s story highlights the strict enforcement of cannabis rules in tennis, despite evolving cultural attitudes. His recent suspension demonstrates the risks of timing violations for players. Tested positive for cannabis Carboxy-THC during an ATP Challenger tournament in 2023. Received a two-year suspension (February 2024 – February 2026), showing that rules are still rigorously applied. Suspension issued under strict liability, meaning intent is irrelevant—players are responsible for substances in their system. Illustrates the need for understanding in-competition testing windows and the fine line players must navigate around cannabis use.

Andre Agassi’s case launched a turning point in how tennis approaches drug violations. His experiences reveal the challenges and secrecy players once faced when caught with banned substances. Tested positive for methamphetamine (not cannabis) in 1997 and lied to avoid suspension, reflecting a punitive regulatory era. Admitted to deception in his autobiography, highlighting the career-destroying potential of drug admissions at the time. Contrast to modern openness, as today’s players discuss cannabis use without hiding or fear of career damage. Represents historical context that led to more nuanced rules for various drug categories in tennis.

Richard Gasquet’s high-profile case created precedent for how tennis treats social drug violations. It helped distinguish recreational drug use from performance-enhancing violations. Tested positive for trace amounts of cocaine in 2009, claiming exposure came from kissing a woman at a nightclub. Initial one-year ban was reduced to about two months after an appeal, with authorities ruling the use was unintentional. Established principle that social drugs should be treated differently, shaping more lenient attitudes toward cannabis policy. Influential in anti-doping body approaches and broader reconsideration of recreational versus performance-enhancing substances.

John Isner stands as a proponent of the wellness-focused use of cannabis compounds in tennis. His support for CBD has helped integrate legal cannabis products into athletic recovery routines. Partnered with CBD brand DEFY in 2019 to promote recovery, legitimizing CBD use in professional tennis. CBD is permitted under WADA rules, though athletes must watch for possible THC contamination. Isner’s endorsement demonstrates safe integration of cannabis compounds into athlete wellness protocols without breaking any rules. Has helped mainstream CBD products as tools for recovery in sports, paving the way for future cannabis-derived solutions.

Cannabinoids are among the most common substances in tennis anti-doping cases, revealing a cultural reality: while cannabis is prohibited during competition, its prevalence suggests widespread recreational use among players. In 2003–2009 ITF data, social drugs (cannabis and cocaine) constituted 36.5% of cases, indicating tennis authorities increasingly recognize cannabis use as social or medicinal rather than performance-enhancing cheating. This distinction is crucial for understanding why cannabis policies in tennis differ from other banned substances. The categorization reflects evolving scientific understanding of cannabiss effects on athletic performance.

Unlike performance-enhancing drugs that are prohibited at all times, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibits cannabinoids only in-competition. This means professional tennis players can use cannabis during their off-time and training periods, as long as its not detected during official competition testing. Under WADA rules, cannabinoids are prohibited in-competition only; players must also comply with applicable laws and event policies. The in-competition period typically begins at 11:59 p.m. the day before competition. The 150 nanograms per milliliter threshold was increased ten-fold in 2013, demonstrating that regulatory bodies recognized the prevalence of casual use and wanted to distinguish between recreational consumption and intentional performance manipulation. This nuanced approach makes tennis more permissive than many realize.

Geographic patterns in anti-doping violations reveal cultural differences in tennis communities. European players overall account for 59.6% of all tennis doping offenses according to 2003–2009 data, indicating regional differences in both substance use and testing protocols. This data suggests varying attitudes toward cannabis and other substances across different tennis cultures and potentially different enforcement priorities. Understanding these patterns helps contextualize how different tennis communities approach cannabis use and policy compliance.

The intersection of tennis and cannabis is rapidly changing, with new regulatory and wellness trends shaping athlete recovery and discipline-specific policies. As research progresses and governing bodies adapt, the role of CBD and cannabis continues to evolve across professional tennis.

CBD use is permitted under WADA rules, enabling tennis professionals to integrate CBD into their recovery protocols while athletes must still be cautious about potential THC contamination. Endorsement by athletes and emergence of tennis-focused wellness brands reflect mainstream acceptance and the bridging of traditional and cannabis-based recovery strategies. CBD is employed for pain relief, inflammation reduction, and recovery acceleration, validating its legitimacy as a tool for athletes. Expanded usage and endorsement trends suggest continued growth as new therapeutic benefits are confirmed through ongoing research.

WADA raised the cannabis urinary threshold to 150 ng/mL, which is ten times higher than previous limits, signifying increased tolerance for non-performance-enhancing use. Sanctions for cannabis violations are typically 3 months and may be reduced to 1 month with an approved treatment program, further reflecting growing normalization in policy. Changes in suspension frameworks and athlete behavior indicate a shift toward proportionate penalties, aligning with broader societal acceptance of cannabis.

Historical doping incidence from 2003–2009 was 1.81% for wheelchair tennis, compared to 0.35% among non-wheelchair athletes, suggesting meaningful discipline differences. Higher rates may reflect medical needs or pain management requirements particular to wheelchair tennis and increased access to cannabis-based treatments. Current data calls for nuanced cannabis policies that address unique athlete populations and evolving patterns, emphasizing the need for further research.

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