Despite Looming Retirement, Tennis Veteran Kei Nishikori Draws Inspiration From Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic as He Gears Up for One Last Run

Kei Nishikori was one of the most consistent players on the ATP tour a few years ago. Injuries derailed a rather promising career but the Japanese star still managed to add plenty to his CV. An Olympic bronze medal along with a Slam final will ensure that future generations will remember Nishikori. However, he now has an opportunity to add more to his cabinet.

After a long hiatus from the sport, the former world number 4 is making a strong comeback to the tour. At 33 years of age, he still wishes to play the sport at the highest level. But, one must wonder, where his motivation is coming from, right?

Kei Nishikori inspired by Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal

Nishikori hasn’t played a tour-level match since 2021 Indian Wells. He missed out on an entire year owing to his hip injury. On his return last month, he won a challenger event and is now all set to return to the ATP tour in Atlanta. He will lock horns with Jordan Thompson of Australia in the first round of the Atlanta Open today.

When asked about maintaining motivation, he said via Eurosport, “It was tough to maintain the motivation, but I just wanted to play tennis again and compete again.” He then went on to acknowledge Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Nishikori further added, “And especially watching Djokovic, Rafa still playing, fighting. And I haven’t played against Alcaraz, Rune. That’s something I also can’t wait to play against them.”

Nishikori also wishes to take on the talented youngsters in Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune. During his pre-injury period, the two prodigies were tussling with the challengers. However, now Alcaraz and Rune are among the top-6 ranked players in the world.

READ MORE: After Ending 4-Year Long Hiatus, Japanese Tennis Star Kei Nishikori Reveals Grateful Message to Andy Murray as He Looks to Replicate the Brit’s Late Career Resurgence

When can Kei Nishikori face Alcaraz or Rune?

Nishikori’s schedule for the 2023 North American hard-court swing is packed. He kicks start his campaign today in Atlanta. He will then play in Washington and Cincinnati before entering the Flushing Meadows for the much-anticipated US Open. Both Alcaraz and Rune are also playing Cincinnati and the US Open by default.

So, there is a good chance that Nishikori could lock horns with either of the two youngsters in these events. Should the matchup take place, do you think Nishikori could roll back the clock and trump them with experience? Do let us know in the comments.

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