What’s Next for Kei Nishikori After Yet Another Injury Plagued Season? The Japanese Star Brings Future Goals into Focus

Former World No. 4 Kei Nishikori hasn’t had the best year but has the potential to be one of the top players on the ATP circuit. Unfortunately, Kei’s recent seasons have been injury-plagued, and he hasn’t been able to get a consistent run on Tour. Currently ranked at World No. 47, the Japanese expressed his desire to attain a rank under the top 20.

Nishikori, who recently became a father, expressed his desire to regain his old form in the next few seasons.

Kei Nishikori wants to make a statement

Kei Nishikori recently, in an interview, discussed regaining his old form back on the tour. The 2014 US Open finalist wants to get back to reaching the later stages of Grand Slam tournaments.

“I’m still about no. 50, need to be back in top 20 or 30 to get seeded at Slams. Want to come back to the position to make semis at Slams in the next couple of years, that’s one of my motivations, the atmosphere of Slams is special,” he stated in an interview with wowow tennis.

The Japanese is definitely capable of achieving his maiden Grand Slam title. In addition, Nishikori has touched the quarter-finals of the Grand Slam on twelve occasions. There was a time when the Japanese possessed a serious threat to ‘The Big Three’.

Watch this story: The Journey of Roger Federer to the Elite Billionaire’s Club

Nishikori’s 2021 season

2021 hasn’t been memorable for Kei Nishikori as it looks like he is still struggling with injuries. His most notable performance came at Washington Open as he progressed to the semi-finals of the competition. However, he fell short against the American Mackenzie McDonald.

Nishikori has earned 12 ATP titles throughout his professional career. Apart from ATP titles, he also grabbed the bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, defeating the 20-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal. With a record of 27-7 (win-loss), Nishikori holds the record for the highest victory percentage in five-setter matches.

ALSO READ: “Sometimes I Have Doubts on Myself”: Kei Nishikori Opens up on His Injury Nightmares