Nishikori to conclude tennis career at Japan Open
The ATP Tour has confirmed that Kei Nishikori will end his professional career at the Japan Open in September, marking the final chapter for Japan’s most successful male tennis player in the Open Era.
Former US Open finalist Kei Nishikori will conclude his professional tennis career at the Japan Open in Tokyo later this year. The 36-year-old has received a wild card invitation from tournament organisers, a move confirmed by the ATP Tour. The event is scheduled to take place from 30 September to 6 October, providing a domestic stage for Nishikori to mark the end of his tenure on the tour.
Nishikori made his professional debut in 2007 and rose to become the highest-ranked Japanese man in ATP history, reaching a career-high ranking of world No. 4. He achieved significant historic milestones, including becoming the first Japanese man to reach a Grand Slam singles final at the 2014 US Open, where he was defeated by Croatia’s Marin Cilic in straight sets. His career also included a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics after defeating Rafael Nadal.
The announcement comes after a period of significant physical challenges for the veteran player. Following injury struggles, Nishikori has competed exclusively on the lower-tier Challenger tour this year, with his current world ranking dropping to No. 703. Despite these recent setbacks, the ATP Tour’s confirmation of his wild card entry underscores the organisational support for his final season.
Michael Chang, the 1989 French Open winner who previously coached Nishikori, has publicly reflected on the player’s legacy. Chang noted that Nishikori’s achievements should be viewed in the context of the era defined by the 'Big Three' and 'Big Four', suggesting that reaching world No. 4 on two separate occasions was a significant feat. Chang expressed hope that the Tokyo tournament would provide a fitting send-off as Nishikori transitions to a new life stage with his young family.
The retirement has drawn support from peers within the sport. Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, a former world No. 1, described Nishikori as an inspiration for Japanese tennis. Osaka stated she was grateful to have stood next to him as the female representative during recent discussions and expressed her desire to see him play one final time.
The Japan Open will serve as the designated venue for Nishikori’s career conclusion. While the specific nature of any retirement ceremony or final match details has not been provided, the tournament dates offer a clear timeline for the event. The ATP Tour’s involvement ensures the proceedings will be managed within the official framework of the professional tour.
Nishikori’s career spanned nearly two decades, bridging the gap between Japan’s domestic tennis development and global elite competition. His status as the first Japanese man to reach a Grand Slam final remains a pivotal moment in the nation’s sporting history. The upcoming tournament in Tokyo will be the final opportunity for fans to witness his play on the professional circuit.
