Blog

Rafael Nadal extended his wishes to Japanese veteran Kei Nishikori, who ended his professional career after losing (6-4, 6-4) i to Frances Tiafoe in the round of the Tokyo Open. Nishikori ended his career as one of the legends of the game. He did not win a Grand Slam, but went on to achieve some massive achievements during his near two-decade career.

Nishikori won 22 ATP titles and reached the Masters final on four occasions. He also played the US Open final in 2014, losing to Marlin Cilic. He was also the highest-ranked player from Asia. The biggest win of his career came in the 2016 Rio Olympics, when he defeated Rafael Nadal to win an Olympic bronze medal.

Soon after his retirement, Nadal took to social media to congratulate Nishikori on an incredible career.

“Congratulations on an incredible career, Kei Nishikori! It was always a pleasure to share the court with you. You can be very proud of everything you have accomplished and of the example you set for so many people,” wrote Nadal.

Novak Djokovic, Legends Pay Tribute To Nishikori

Nishikori had the potential of a top 10 player and he proved that when he reached career high of fourth, however, injuries hampered his performance in the second half of his career.

Meanwhile, the Japanese did a lap of honour of the main showcourt in Tokyo, the place where he won the title in 2012 and 2014. A video featuring Djokovic, Andy Murray and Michael Chang, congratulating Nishikori, was also shown.

“Your resilience and fighting spirit, to always come back after a lot of adversity, is really commendable and admirable,” Djokovic said.

“We had some great battles all over the world. I’m really glad you’re ending your career in your town, your country, in front of your people.

“You’re going to get the farewell you absolutely deserve,” he added.

source