Kei Nishikori, Japanese Icon, Announces Plans to Retire at the end of 2026

In a year marked by a wave of high-profile retirements—think Gael Monfils, Stan Wawrinka, Sorana Cirstea, David Goffin, Anastasia Sevastova and Jamie Murray—former Grand Slam finalist Kei Nishikori has added his name to the list.

The highest-ranked player in Japanese history, Nishikori rose to a career-high No. 4 in the world, capturing 12 ATP titles and compiling 451 tour-level victories.

The 36-year-old, currently ranked No. 464, announced on Thursday that he will retire at the end of the season.

“I have decided to retire from professional tennis at the end of this season,” Nishikori wrote on X. “Since I was a child, I have been passionate about tennis and pursued it with one dream in my heart: to compete on the world stage.

“Reaching the ATP Tour, competing at the highest level and maintaining a place in the Top 10 is something I am extremely proud of. Whether in victory or defeat, the atmosphere in packed arenas is irreplaceable.”

Nishikori’s career was at times defined by injury setbacks. The explosive shotmaker—who reached the 2014 US Open final to become the first Asian man to contest a Grand Slam singles final—struggled to maintain momentum amid recurring physical issues.

“There were times when I was overwhelmed by frustration and anxiety due to injuries that prevented me from playing as I wanted,” he wrote. “Even so, my love for tennis and my belief that I could become stronger always brought me back. These experiences have shaped my life.

“I am deeply grateful to my family and everyone who has supported me. To be honest, I still wish I could continue. But looking back, I can proudly say I gave it my all. I will cherish every remaining match and fight to the very end.”

Nishikori owns a 29-8 career record in fifth sets and went 157-60 in deciding sets overall. He claimed 104 match wins at the majors and reached 27 ATP finals.

He won 40 matches against the Top 10 and earned two wins over reigning World No.1s.