Legendary Japanese tennis player Kei Nishikori has officially put an end to his rich 19-year professional career. He played his final match right where he wanted to most – on home soil, at the ATP 500 Japan Open in Tokyo. In his first-round match, he was defeated by American Frances Tiafoe 6-4, 6-4.
Nishikori announced back in May that this would be his final season on the ATP Tour. To allow him to say goodbye in front of his loyal fans, at the venue where he lifted the championship trophy twice (2012 and 2014), the organizers in Tokyo granted him a main draw wildcard.
Following the match, a highly emotional farewell ceremony took place on the center court. The highlight was a special video featuring messages of support from tennis greats. Andy Murray, Carlos Alcaraz, his long-time coach Michael Chang, and Novak Djokovic all paid their respects to the Japanese ace.
Djokovic, with whom Nishikori built a great rivalry over the years, playing 21 head-to-head matches, sent touching words to his great rival in a video message broadcast on the big screen:
“Your resilience and fighting spirit, the way you always came back after so many physical adversities and injuries, are truly commendable and admirable. We had some great battles at Grand Slams and other tournaments around the world. I am really glad that you are ending your career in your city, in your country, and in front of your people. You will definitely get the send-off and applause you absolutely deserve. All the best in retirement, Kei.”
The biggest and most significant battle between Djokovic and Nishikori took place at the 2014 US Open, where the Japanese star won in the semifinals, making history for his continent.
The Greatest Achievements and Legacy of Kei Nishikori
He arrived on the tour with a goal known as “Project 45,” aiming to surpass the highest ranking in Japanese history held by Shuzo Matsuoka (No. 46). Nishikori not only achieved that goal but became an absolute national hero and a global tennis superstar.
- Highest ATP Ranking: World No. 4 (March 2015), making him the most successful Asian male singles player in history.
- Grand Slam Success: 2014 US Open Finalist (after defeating Djokovic, he lost the final to Marin Cilic).
- Olympic Glory: Bronze medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics (defeating Rafael Nadal in the bronze medal match).
- Titles: Won a total of 12 ATP titles, capturing his first as a teenager in 2008 in Delray Beach, starting his run from the qualifiers.
Kei Nishikori will be remembered for his fantastic footwork, impeccable timing, lethal two-handed backhand down the line, and the iron will with which he repeatedly defied the numerous severe wrist and back injuries that plagued his entire career.
For more information on the events, results, and match analyses, visit our main ATP Japan Open 2026 hub.
