In a thrilling first-round match at the Australian Open 2025, Kei Nishikori staged an incredible comeback to defeat Brazilian Thiago Monteiro in a five-set thriller. The match, which lasted over four hours, saw Nishikori save two match points in the third set before ultimately prevailing with a score of 4-6, 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-2, 6-3.
Nishikori, who had been down two sets to love, faced match points at 4-5 in the third set. “It was a really tough one,” Nishikori said after the match. “I almost forgot he had two match points. I tried to stay calm even though I was almost out of the tournament. I just tried to focus on what I can do.”
The Japanese veteran, who has faced numerous injuries over the years, almost gave up on tennis but was motivated by the dream of playing at the Australian Open. His perseverance paid off as he fought back to win the third set and eventually the match. “I almost gave up at match point,” Nishikori admitted. “He was playing very good and was on a roll. But I somehow fought through.”
Nishikori’s victory is a testament to his resilience and determination. The 35-year-old, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 4 in the world and was a US Open finalist in 2014, has now advanced to the second round of the Australian Open. He will next face either Tommy Paul or Christopher O’Connell.
Kei Nishikori in 2025
LWWLWWWWLL Now the world no.74, the Japanese played his last match on the 12th of January when he defeated world no.106 Thiago Moura Monteiro 4-6 6-7(4) 7-5 6-2 6-3 in the 1st round of the Australian Open (draw).
During this season Kei has achieved a compiled 5-1 win-loss record. Kei Nishikori’s most significant achievement of the year was getting to the final in Hong Kong.
