Kei Nishikori, a US Open finalist and Asia’s most decorated tennis player, has announced the end of his successful career at the close of this season. The 36-year-old Japanese athlete shared the difficult news on social media.
«To be honest, I still wish I could continue my career,» Nishikori wrote. «Looking back at everything up to this point, I can say with pride that I gave it my all.»
Nishikori’s prime career moments were several years ago. In 2014, he became the first Japanese player to reach a Grand Slam final in New York, though he lost to Marin Cilic of Croatia. He also became the first player from his country to break into the Top 10 of the world rankings, ultimately reaching as high as number four. His career highlights include twelve tour titles and a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Currently ranked ATP-464, Nishikori has been plagued by recurring injuries. «There were also times when frustration and fear overwhelmed me because injuries repeatedly prevented me from playing the way I wished,» he stated. «Nevertheless, my love for tennis and my belief that I could become a better player always brought me back to the court.»