Kei Nishikori, the former world No. 4 and 2014 US Open finalist, announced via social media that he intends to retire at the end of the current tennis season. At 36, Nishikori has struggled with injuries, including a right shoulder issue that forced him to miss the Australian Open earlier this year, as well as last year’s US Open.
Since turning professional in 2007, Nishikori made history as the first Japanese player to reach a Grand Slam men’s singles final, ultimately losing to Croatia’s Marin Cilic. He also secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, famously defeating Rafael Nadal in a dramatic three-set match. Reflecting on his career, Nishikori admitted to feeling as though he was “barely hanging on” due to his physical struggles.
In his heartfelt message, Nishikori expressed pride in his journey, stating, “Looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say I gave it my all.” As he prepares to bid farewell to the sport, fans and fellow athletes alike will remember his contributions to tennis and his remarkable achievements.
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