Former world No. 4 Kei Nishikori spoke candidly in Tokyo about playing through the golden era of men’s tennis alongside the sport’s legendary “Big Four,” admitting that while their dominance created an immense barrier, competing against them shaped his entire career.
Entering the singles draw of the Kinoshita Group Japan Open Tennis Championships 2026 via a wildcard, the 36-year-old Japanese veteran faces a bittersweet milestone. Nishikori has announced that this ATP 500 hard-court event in Tokyo will serve as the final official tournament of his professional career.
Reflecting on the Big Four Era
Nishikori made his remarks during a pre-tournament press conference on Feb. 25, addressing what it meant to compete on the ATP Tour during a historical epoch dominated by Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Rather than expressing frustration over blocked paths to major titles, Nishikori described that period as the most enjoyable of his playing days.
“That period was the most fun time for me,” Nishikori said during the press conference. “There were always huge walls standing there. Especially those four, plus players like David Ferrer and Stan Wawrinka, but they were the ones who really helped me grow.”
The veteran star singled out Djokovic as a particularly formidable obstacle that forced him to constantly elevate his game. Nishikori noted that while he occasionally wondered what his career might have looked like without such towering rivals, their presence unlocked an extra gear of competitive passion within him.
“Especially Djokovic was an insanely huge wall, and I was constantly forced to challenge myself,” Nishikori explained. “Of course, I sometimes think about what it would have been like if they weren’t there, but because those guys were there, my passion for tennis probably had an extra level. In the last two or three years since those players have left, I’ve definitely felt a sense of loss mentally.”
The Final Tournament and a Farewell Dream Match
As Nishikori prepares for his twelfth appearance at the Tokyo tournament—where he previously claimed the championship trophies in 2012 and 2014—reporters asked which player he would most want to face in his final professional outing. With a smile, the former US Open finalist admitted he had no specific opponent in mind, save for one childhood idol who has already retired.
“There isn’t anyone. If Federer were here, maybe Federer,” Nishikori said with a laugh. “After all, there is only one player I’ve ever idolized, so if it were Federer, I’d think about it… Otherwise, anybody is fine.”
The Japan Open Tennis Championships 2026 is scheduled to open on March 30 at the Ariake Colosseum in Tokyo, marking the final competitive chapter for one of Asia’s most successful tennis pioneers.
