Former World No. 4 Kei Nishikori is no stranger to the ATP Finals, having competed in an impressive 26 events between 2008 and 2019. But the road back to contention has been anything but smooth for the Japanese star. After battling injuries and setbacks for over six years, Nishikori is making headlines again, advancing to his first ATP final since January 2019 at the ATP 250 event in Hong Kong.
Now, Nishikori stands on the brink of a remarkable comeback, poised to claim his 13th ATP title against Alexandre Muller in the final.
The Journey to the Final: Nishikori’s Path in Hong Kong
First Round: Defeating Shapovalov
Nishikori kicked off his campaign with a decisive victory over Canadian star Denis Shapovalov. Struggling with form, Shapovalov managed just five games, allowing Nishikori a comfortable path into the next round.
Second Round: Thrilling Comeback Against Khachanov
Facing Karen Khachanov, Nishikori was pushed to the brink. After losing the first set and trailing by a break in the second, Nishikori rallied back in spectacular fashion. He turned the match around, winning 4-6, 7-5, 6-3, thanks to a crucial break at 5-5 in the decider.
Quarterfinals: Outlasting Cameron Norrie
Nishikori’s quarterfinal clash with Cameron Norrie showcased his resilience. In a hard-fought battle, Nishikori triumphed 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, breaking Norrie three times and finishing strong with back-to-back breaks in the final set.
Semifinals: Walkover Against Shang
In the semifinals, Nishikori faced teenage sensation Juncheng Shang, but the match ended prematurely. Shang retired after the seventh game of the opening set due to illness, handing Nishikori a spot in the final. Despite the anticlimactic finish, Nishikori’s form throughout the tournament solidified his place as a serious title contender.
A Remarkable Comeback Story
This week marks a turning point for Nishikori, who has endured countless injuries that kept him away from the ATP spotlight. His perseverance and refusal to give up are now paying dividends, as the 33-year-old finds himself back in the hunt for titles.
“I’m thrilled to be competing at this level again,” Nishikori said earlier in the tournament. “It’s been a tough journey, but moments like this make it all worthwhile.”
Final Showdown: Nishikori vs. Muller
Standing between Nishikori and his 13th ATP title is Alexandre Muller, a rising star with a knack for pulling off upsets. While Nishikori brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in finals, Muller’s hunger and sharp form will make this a thrilling battle.
What’s Next for Nishikori?
Win or lose in Hong Kong, Nishikori’s resurgence is a testament to his unwavering determination. With the Australian Open just around the corner, Nishikori’s performance in Hong Kong serves as a reminder that he remains a force to be reckoned with on the ATP Tour.
Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if Nishikori can complete this fairytale comeback with a title and rekindle the magic that made him one of tennis’s most electrifying players.