Tokyo – In a heartfelt farewell at the Ariake Coliseum, 36‑year‑old Kei Nishikori played his last professional match, falling 6‑4, 6‑4 to American Frances Tiafoe in the first round of the Japan Open. The former world No. 4, a trailblazer for Asian tennis, received a standing ovation from the home crowd, who rose to salute the Japanese legend.
Career highlights celebrated
Organisers marked the occasion with a video tribute that featured messages from several of the sport’s biggest names. Novak Djokovic, a 24‑time Grand Slam champion, praised Nishikori’s “resilience and fighting spirit,” noting the player’s ability to return from injuries and adversity. “I’m really glad you’re ending your career in your town, in your country, in front of your people,” Djokovic said, adding that Nishikori deserved the applause he received.
Seven‑time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz called himself a fan, while fellow competitors Grigor Dimitrov, Alex de Minaur and Andy Murray highlighted Nishikori’s elegant two‑handed backhand. Former world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas posted a heartfelt note in Japanese on X, thanking Nishikori for his hard work, aggressive counter‑punching style and the pride he brought to Japan.
Historic achievements
Nishikori’s impact on the sport extends beyond his 12 ATP titles. In 2014 he became the first Asian man to reach a Grand Slam singles final at the US Open, and he was the second Asian player, after Thailand’s Paradorn Srichaphan, to break into the top‑10 rankings. He reached a career‑high ranking of No. 4 in 2015, a milestone that inspired a generation of young athletes across Japan and the broader Asian region.
His success helped raise the profile of tennis in Japan, leading to increased participation at the grassroots level and greater media coverage of the sport. The Japan Open, which Nishikori won in 2012 and 2014, has become a showcase for Japanese talent, and his retirement marks the end of an era for the tournament.
Injuries and final ranking
Despite his accomplishments, Nishikori’s later years were marred by recurring injuries that limited his ability to compete consistently. Those setbacks caused his world ranking to slip to No. 436 at the time of his retirement, underscoring the physical toll of a demanding professional career.
Nevertheless, his legacy remains intact. Fans and fellow players alike recognize his perseverance, sportsmanship, and the pride he brought to Japan on the global stage.
Looking ahead
While Nishikori steps away from the tour, he expressed optimism about his next chapter, hinting at possible involvement in coaching, mentorship, or tennis promotion within Japan. The tennis community anticipates that his experience and passion will continue to benefit the sport, especially for aspiring young players who look up to his example.
As the final applause faded, the message was clear: Kei Nishikori’s contributions to tennis will be remembered not only for the titles he won but for the doors he opened for future generations of Asian athletes.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
