Kei Nishikori retires after final match at Japan Open in Tokyo
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 11:11 AM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026

Kei Nishikori played his final professional match at the Japan Open in Tokyo on October 1, losing 6-4, 6-4 to Frances Tiafoe. The 36-year-old former world No. 4 has been plagued by injuries in recent years but is celebrated for his contributions to tennis, including winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics. Following his match, Nishikori expressed pride in his career and thanked fans, while receiving tributes from many in the tennis community, including Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. A farewell lap of honour was conducted after the match.
- •Nishikori played his last match on October 1 at the Japan Open.
- •He lost his final match to Frances Tiafoe in straight sets.
- •Nishikori reached the 2014 US Open final, losing to Marin Cilic.
- •He earned a bronze medal for Japan at the 2016 Olympics.
- •Nishikori was known for his fighting spirit and resilience throughout his career.
- 11:11 AMYahoo Sports — Grand Slam finalist in tears after playing final professional match at 36
"The former world number four is one of the best players in the modern era never to win a major
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