Kei Nishikori, Japan's tennis trailblazer and former world number four, has announced he will retire from professional tennis at the end of the 2026 season. The 36-year-old, who made history as the first Japanese player to crack the top 10, shared the news with a heartfelt message: "I gave it my all."
Nishikori's journey has been nothing short of inspiring. In 2014, he became the first Japanese man to reach a Grand Slam singles final, battling Marin Cilic for the US Open title. Though he fell in straight sets, his path to that match included a stunning semi-final victory over 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic—a moment etched in tennis history. He also captured an Olympic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Games, further cementing his legacy as a global competitor.
Over his career, Nishikori has won 12 ATP Tour titles and reached a career-high ranking of world number four. However, persistent injuries have taken a toll, and he now sits at 464 in the rankings. He last competed on the main ATP Tour at the Cincinnati Open in August 2025, and has been playing on the Challenger Tour this year.
"To be honest, I still wish I could continue my playing career," Nishikori wrote on social media. "Even so, looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say that I gave it my all. I am truly happy to have walked this path."
Reflecting on his journey, Nishikori emphasized the highs and lows that shaped him. "Reaching the ATP Tour, playing at the highest level of competition and maintaining a presence in the top 10 is something I am extremely proud of," he said. "Whether in victory or defeat, the special atmosphere I felt in packed arenas is irreplaceable."
He also acknowledged the challenges: "There were also times when I was overwhelmed by frustration and anxiety due to repeated injuries that prevented me from playing as I wanted. Even so, my love for tennis and my belief that I could become a stronger player always brought me back to the court."
With one more season to go, Nishikori plans to cherish every moment. "I will treasure every match and fight to the very end," he promised. For fans who have followed his incredible career—and for those who remember his iconic upset of Djokovic—the countdown to his final bow has begun.