Kei Nishikori has stepped away from his tennis career.
The 2014 US Open finalist contested his final match on Thursday, losing to Frances Tiafoe at the Japan Open, 4-6, 4-6.
A number of ATP stars paid tribute to the Japanese icon following his last match, including Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.
“I’m really glad you’re ending your career in your town, in your country, in front of your people,” Djokovic said in a prepared statement. “You’re definitely going to get the farewell and applause that you absolutely deserve. All the very best in retirement, Kei.”
Rafael Nadal, another of tennis’ all-time great players, has now sent his own message to Nishikori.
Rafael Nadal’s message for Kei Nishikori
“Congratulations on an amazing career,” Kei Nishikori,” Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, said in a post on X.
Nishikori retires from tennis as one of the most accomplished players of his generation.
A 12-time ATP Tour champion, Nishikori reached at least the quarter-finals of every Grand Slam event, with his career highlight coming in 2014, when he defeated Novak Djokovic en route to the US Open final.
Injuries plagued the Japanese star during the latter stages of his career, with physical issues hampering his right ankle, right shoulder, left knee, and hip.
Nishikori retires from his professional playing career having achieved a career-high ranking of world number four, collecting over $26 million in prize money along the way.