Kei Nishikori surprises again in Monte Carlo.
Now ranked no.36, the Japanese is having a fantastic run in the Principality after he defeated the likes of Cilic and Zverev before reaching the final.
The semis vs. Zverev
The semifinal against Zverev was particularly tight, and it seemed as the Japanese was destined to lose the encounter after he lost the first set 6-3 after he dropped 2 consecutive service games.
Eventually, Kei bounced back immediately in the second set to win the first 2 games (2-0); however, the Japanese conceded the next 3 games (2-3) with Zverev storming back furiously. At that point, it was Nishikori to conquer 5 consecutive games and lead the match on a 3-6 6-3 1-0 scoreline.
The contest became a massive fight till the end, and the only difference between the 2 contenders was a break in the final game. Nishikori won the match 3-6 6-3 6-4 after 2 hours and 13 minutes.
I have always enjoyed playing Monte Carlo. NISHIKORI
This will be the 3rd attempt of Kei to win an ATP1000 after he lost in the final in Madrid (2014 to Nadal) and 2016 (Miami and Toronto in both occasions to Djokovic).
Kei commented
“I always enjoy playing this tournament. It’s a great place to play tennis. I’m happy to be back in final of a Masters 1000 again. It’s been a long time for me. Hopefully, I can have another good day tomorrow.”
The final vs. Nadal
Kei will face Rafael Nadal in the final. The head to head is 6-2 for the Spaniard, 3-0 on clay.
| CHASING HIS FIRST ATP1000 |
| Embed from Getty Images |
