Key Takeaways
- Kei Nishikori ended his professional tennis career on Thursday following a 4-6, 4-6 loss to Frances Tiafoe at the Japan Open.
- Rafael Nadal congratulated the Japanese star on X, writing: “It was always a pleasure to share the court with you. You can be very proud of everything you have achieved and the example you have set for so many people!”
- Novak Djokovic also praised the former world number 4, stating: “I’m really glad you’re ending your career in your town, in your country, in front of your people.”
Kei Nishikori brings his tennis journey to a close
Former world number 4 Kei Nishikori has officially stepped away from professional tennis, playing the final match of his career in front of a home crowd at the Japan Open. The 2014 US Open finalist suffered a 4-6, 4-6 defeat against Frances Tiafoe on Thursday, marking the conclusion of an era for Japanese tennis.
Following his farewell contest, heartfelt tributes poured in from across the ATP Tour. Novak Djokovic shared warm words via a prepared statement to honour his longtime rival: “I’m really glad you’re ending your career in your town, in your country, in front of your people,” the Serbian champion said. “You’re definitely going to get the farewell and applause that you absolutely deserve. All the very best in retirement, Kei.”
Rafael Nadal praises Japanese star’s example and achievements
Rafael Nadal, who engaged in numerous battles against Nishikori over the years, posted his own touching tribute on X to celebrate the Japanese trailblazer.
“Congratulations on an amazing career,” Nadal wrote. “It was always a pleasure to share the court with you. You can be very proud of everything you have achieved and the example you have set for so many people!”
The 22-time Grand Slam winner concluded his message with warm wishes for Nishikori’s life beyond the baseline: “All the best for this new chapter! Thank you, big hug.”
Reflecting on a distinguished career
Nishikori retires as one of the standout performers of his era, finishing with 12 ATP Tour titles and more than $26 million earned in prize money. He reached at least the quarter-final stage at all 4 Grand Slam tournaments, most memorably stunning Djokovic to reach the 2014 US Open final. Although recurring injuries to his right ankle, right shoulder, left knee, and hip disrupted his later years, his career featured several deep runs at the highest tiers.
Below is a summary of Nishikori’s appearances in ATP Masters 1000 finals throughout his playing days:
| Year | Tournament | Tier | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Madrid Open | Masters 1000 | Finalist |
| 2016 | Miami Open | Masters 1000 | Finalist |
| 2016 | Canadian Open | Masters 1000 | Finalist |
| 2018 | Monte Carlo Masters | Masters 1000 | Finalist |
Nishikori first emerged on the ATP scene in 2007 at the Countrywide Classic in Los Angeles, falling to Wesley Moodie in the opening round after qualifying. He quickly found his rhythm, picking up match wins over Alejandro Falla and Michael Berrer in Indianapolis that same summer before capturing his breakthrough ATP title as a qualifier at the 2008 Delray Beach Open.
Kei Nishikori in 2026
Currently ranked no.436, Nishikori played his last match on the 1st of October when he lost to world no.8 Francis Tiafoe 6-4 6-4 in the 1st round in Tokyo (draw).
Currently, during this season Nishikori owns a compiled 9-11 win-loss record.
