Japan’s Nishikori to retire at end of 2026 season

Japan’s Kei Nishikori says he “gave it his all” after announcing he will retire from tennis at the end of the 2026 season.

The 36-year-old became the first Japanese player to break into the top 10 and achieved a career-high ranking of number four in the men’s standings.

Nishikori, who won bronze at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, became the first player from his country to reach a Grand Slam singles final when he played Marin Cilic for the US Open title in 2014 – a match he lost in straight sets.

He has now dropped to 464 in the men’s rankings having been hampered by injuries.

“To be honest, I still wish I could continue my playing career,” wrote Nishikori on social media. “Even so, looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say that l gave it my all. I am truly happy to have walked this path.

“I will cherish every moment of the remaining matches and fight to the very end.”

Nishikori, who started his professional career in 2007, won 12 ATP Tour titles and has been playing on the Challenger Tour tour this year.

He last competed on the main ATP Tour at the Cincinnati Open in August 2025.

One of Nishikori’s most notable wins was beating 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the 2014 US Open.

“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,” said Nishikori.

“Whether in victory or defeat, the special atmosphere I felt in packed arenas is irreplaceable.

“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.

“I feel that all of these experiences have enriched and shaped my life. I am deeply grateful [to] my family and to everyone who has supported me at all times.”