Former professional tennis player Kei Nishikori will receive both the Shimane Prefecture Citizens’ Honor Award and the Matsue City Citizens’ Honor Award following an emergency press conference held on Nov. 4 by Shimane Governor Tatsuya Maruyama and Matsue Mayor Akihito Uesada.
Nishikori, who hails from Matsue City in Shimane Prefecture, wrapped up his professional tennis career in October at the Japan Open. Matsue City’s award is the city’s first Citizens’ Honor Award.
A Career Milestone That Led to the Prefecture’s Fourth Honor
Governor Maruyama announced the prefectural award during the joint briefing, noting that Nishikori joins a select group of recipients in Shimane. The distinction has previously been awarded to only three others: former Shimane Prefecture Governor Nobuyoshi Sumida, professional shogi player Kana Fuma, and sculptor Kiichi Sumikawa.
In 2014, Nishikori reached the US Open semifinal, becoming the first Asian player to reach a Grand Slam semifinal. He broke into the world top 10 later that year and climbed to No. 4 in 2015 before capturing a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Following his 2014 run at the US Open, Shimane Prefecture initially floated the idea of presenting him with the prefectural honor, but Nishikori declined at the time, deeming it premature. When officials approached him again, both the prefecture and the city secured his agreement.
Leaders Look to Nishikori to Inspire Younger Generations
Governor Maruyama expressed a desire for Nishikori to share his hard-won experiences and success story with individuals striving toward their own goals.
Mayor Uesada echoed those sentiments, stating that city officials hope to arrange opportunities for children born and raised in Matsue to interact with Nishikori and see firsthand that major dreams are attainable.
Presentation Ceremonies Scheduled for Nov. 17
The official presentation ceremonies will take place on the afternoon of Nov. 17 at the Shimane Prefectural Office and the Matsue City Hall. When asked by reporters whether members of the general public will have a chance to see Nishikori during the events, Governor Maruyama and Mayor Uesada both avoided making firm commitments while suggesting that public-facing elements might still materialize.
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