Kei Nishikori announced he will retire from tennis at the end of the 2026 ATP season on Friday.
In a heartfelt post on social media, the former world number four admitted he wished he could continue playing, but can ‘proudly’ say he gave it his all.
The Japanese star recorded an impressive career during what many consider the toughest era in tennis history, defined by the dominance of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
Who is the greatest male tennis player of all time?
Despite having to compete with the ‘big three’ as well as the likes of Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka, Nishikori won 12 ATP titles and reached the final of the US Open in 2014.
After calling a halt to his playing days, the 36-year-old was showered with praise on social media and received a message from his compatriot, Naomi Osaka.
Naomi Osaka reacts to Kei Nishikori’s retirement from tennis
In a post on her Instagram story, Osaka posted a picture of her and Nishikori holding a Japanese flag together at the 2018 US Open.
Both stars enjoyed incredible campaigns at Flushing Meadows that year; particularly Osaka, who defeated Serena Williams in the final to capture her first Grand Slam title.
Nishikori, on the other hand, reached the semifinals of the tournament, ultimately falling to eventual champion Djokovic.
How far do you think Naomi Osaka will go at the French Open?
She has never been past the third round before…
Captioning the image, Osaka said: “I do not think Kei knows how inspirational he is to me but when I was younger I would always watch his matches and want him to do well.”
She then posted another image of the two together on court, stating: “Hopefully we can play doubles again sometime!”
Marin Cilic’s message to Kei Nishikori on social media
Nishikori’s 2014 US Open final conqueror, Marin Cilic, also took to social media to congratulate him on his career.
Cilic, who beat Nishikori in straight sets to hoist a maiden Grand Slam trophy that year, said: “You’ve done so many incredible achievements during your career.
“Be proud of that and enjoy the rest of the season, Kei! Wishing you the best!”
Nishikori and Cilic’s match was the Grand Slam final from Roland Garros 2005 up to and including the 2020 Australian Open that did not feature at least one of Federer, Nadal, Djokovic or Murray.
Both stars earned unlikely triumphs in the semifinals to book their place in the championship match, with Nishikori beating Djokovic, and Cilic overcoming Federer.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
