Japanese tennis legend Kei Nishikori concluded his 19-year professional career following a straight-sets defeat to Frances Tiafoe at the Japan Open in Tokyo, while his wife, Mai Yamauchi, attended his subsequent retirement ceremony wearing her wedding ring.
Final Match and Retirement Ceremony in Tokyo
Nishikori played his final official singles match on October 1 at the Japan Open in Tokyo, falling 0-2 (4-6, 4-6) to American second seed Frances Tiafoe in the first round. Five days later, on October 6, an official retirement ceremony took place at Ariake Coliseum in Tokyo’s Ariake Tennis Forest Park, drawing an attendance of approximately 10,000 spectators.
Reflecting on a Nineteen-Year Career
During the ceremony, Nishikori addressed the crowd and reflected on his nearly two decades on the ATP Tour. According to reports from the Sanin Chuo Shimpo, he told supporters that maintaining consistent effort and chasing ambitious goals brought him profound happiness throughout a deeply enjoyable tennis career.
Family and Coaching Figures in Attendance
The gathering brought together key figures from Nishikori’s personal and professional development, including his parents and family members. Michael Chang, the coach who guided Nishikori into the world’s top 10 rankings, attended the event alongside Masaaki Morita, the former Japan Tennis Association president who financially supported Nishikori’s move to the United States when he was 13 years old.
Tributes from Global Tennis Rivals
World-class rivals Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal delivered video messages broadcast during the event. Djokovic praised Nishikori’s fighting spirit and mental resilience in overcoming multiple injuries, while Nadal commended his longevity at the highest level despite persistent physical setbacks.
Wife’s Presence at Final Events
Yamauchi observed Nishikori’s final match on October 1 from the stands and later appeared at his retirement ceremony on October 6. Mid-ceremony, Nishikori walked over to Yamauchi by the court side for an embrace, during which she was seen wiping away tears with a handkerchief. Media reports highlighted that Yamauchi wore her wedding ring on her left ring finger during the appearance.
Resolution of 2024 Personal Controversy
Nishikori and Yamauchi married in 2020 after a six-year relationship, and they share two children. Yamauchi previously worked as a model under the stage name Ako Mitsuki.
Nishikori acknowledged the report through his management agency at the time and issued a public apology. In his statement, he expressed deep remorse for causing pain and distress to his wife, children, and both families, while vowing to regain public trust through dedicated performance on the tennis court. Nishikori subsequently announced in May of that year that he would retire following the conclusion of the season.
Next Scheduled Appearance
Nishikori’s retirement marks the official end of his competitive tournament schedule on the ATP Tour, with no further professional matches planned.
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