Daijiworld Media Network – Tokyo

Tokyo, May 1: Former world No. 4 and 2014 US Open finalist Kei Nishikori has announced that he will retire from professional tennis at the end of the current season, bringing the curtain down on a career marked by historic achievements and persistent injury setbacks.

The 36-year-old Japanese star made the announcement on social media, reflecting on his journey in the sport. “Looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say I gave it my all. I am truly happy to have walked this path,” Nishikori wrote.

Nishikori, who turned professional in 2007, scripted history by becoming the first Japanese player to reach a Grand Slam men’s singles final at the 2014 US Open. He finished runner-up after losing to Croatia’s Marin Cilic in straight sets.

His career has also been highlighted by an Olympic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Games, where he defeated Spain’s Rafael Nadal in a hard-fought match.

In recent years, however, Nishikori has struggled with recurring injuries. He missed the Australian Open earlier this year due to a right shoulder issue and was also absent from the US Open last year. In April, he had admitted that he was “barely hanging on,” referring to his physical condition.

Despite the challenges, Nishikori remains one of Asia’s most celebrated tennis players, having paved the way for future generations with his success on the global stage.

His retirement will mark the end of an era in Japanese tennis, with fans across the world set to bid farewell to one of the sport’s most resilient competitors.