Kei Nishikori Saves Two Match Points to Advance at Australian Open

Kei Nishikori staged an epic comeback at the Australian Open, saving two match points to defeat Thiago Monteiro in a thrilling five-set match.

Kei Nishikori, the 33rd-seeded Japanese veteran, revealed that he considered quitting tennis last year due to persistent injuries. However, his desire to compete at the Australian Open kept him motivated. Nishikori's determination paid off on Sunday as he saved two match points to defeat Brazil's Thiago Monteiro in a thrilling five-set match.

Nishikori, a former world number four and US Open finalist, trailed by two sets but rallied to win 4-6, 6-7(4), 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 in 4 hours and 6 minutes. “I almost gave up at match point,” Nishikori admitted. “He was playing very good and was on a roll. But I somehow fought through.”

Reflecting on the match, Nishikori said, “It was a really tough one. I tried to stay calm even though I was almost out of the tournament. I tried to fight to the end.” Nishikori's resilience and perseverance ultimately paid off, as he advanced to the next round of the Australian Open.

After overcoming his injury struggles, Kei Nishikori returned to Grand Slam competition last year, participating in his first two majors since the 2021 season. He reached the second round at Roland Garros before being forced to retire due to a shoulder issue. Nishikori recovered in time to play at Wimbledon, where he lost in the first round.

Nishikori revealed that he had considered quitting tennis due to his persistent injuries. “Almost last year because I had my knee and shoulder two years ago, and I almost came back. I got injured again,” he said. “I was thinking, if I have maybe another surgery, then I think mentally I'm not able to fight any more.”

Despite his injury setbacks, Nishikori's passion for competition kept him motivated. “I wanted to play (again) in a big stadium like today,” he said. “That was my goal a year ago when I was doing rehab. I still think that I have the chance to play with these top players.” Nishikori's determination and love for the sport have driven him to continue competing at the highest level.

Kei Nishikori demonstrated his progress by reaching his first final in six years at the Hong Kong Open this month. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his comeback journey. Nishikori, the first Asian Grand Slam men's singles finalist at the 2014 US Open, has been working tirelessly to regain his form.

Nishikori has a remarkable record in five-set matches, boasting a 29-8 win-loss record at the tour level. Prior to facing Thiago Monteiro, he had played eight five-set matches at Melbourne Park, losing only once to Roger Federer in 2017. When asked about his ability to perform under pressure, Nishikori explained, “I try to think a lot. I think my focus level, it's always high, especially in the last set. Also, it's kind of big for me to stay tough until the end.”

Now coached by 2002 Australian Open champion Thomas Johansson, Nishikori will face either American 12th seed Tommy Paul or Australia's Chris O'Connell in his next match. As he advances in the tournament, Nishikori will look to continue drawing upon his mental toughness and focus to overcome the challenges ahead.