Kei Nishikori’s Final Season: Injuries, Motivation and a Last-Chance Washington Run

Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori, the former world No. 4, confirmed that he will retire at the end of the 2026 season. The decision, first disclosed in late April, was reiterated at a press conference in early July. Nishikori plans to compete in the Washington DC ATP 500 event this week, followed by an attempt to qualify for the U.S. Open and a farewell tournament in Tokyo in the fall.

Kei Nishikori's Exit Interview

The player underwent left-hip surgery in January 2022 and continued to battle additional ailments after returning to the tour in June 2023. He described the sensation of “heavy feet” during practice as a new and discouraging development.

Japan Today

At the Mubadala DC Open, Nishikori will face 21-year-old Juncheng “Jerry” Shang, who has played only a handful of matches since a foot injury limited him to 14 contests in 2025. Commentators note that Shang’s limited recent activity could give the veteran a “puncher’s chance” despite Nishikori’s recent absence from major events. The Washington match marks Nishikori’s first tournament appearance since announcing his retirement and is expected to draw a supportive crowd eager to see the former U.S. Open runner-up make a final impression.

New York Post

• “I was having heavy feet going to practice and training. I hadn't had that at all until then and the idea (to retire) crossed my mind,” — Kei Nishikori

Japan Today

• “I've been able to practice without holding back and I'm getting better feeling,” — Kei Nishikori

Japan Today