Nishikori Reflects on Epic 5-Set Win: “I Nearly Forgot He Had 2 Match Points”

Vegas Tennis Team
3 Min Read
Nishikori Reflects on Epic 5-Set Win: “I Nearly Forgot He Had 2 Match Points”

In an electrifying opening match at the Australian Open 2025, Kei Nishikori pulled off a stunning reversal against Brazilian Thiago Monteiro, triumphing in a breathtaking five-set battle. The contest spanned over four hours, with Nishikori saving two match points during the nail-biting third set and ultimately securing victory with a scoreline of 4-6, 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-2, 6-3.

After trailing by two sets, Nishikori faced match points at 4-5 in the third set. “This one was incredibly challenging,” Nishikori reflected post-match. “I nearly forgot he had two match points. I concentrated on remaining calm, despite being on the brink of elimination. I just focused on what I could control.”

The seasoned Japanese player, who has battled through numerous injuries, contemplated retiring from tennis but was reignited by his dream of competing at the Australian Open. His determination was on full display as he rallied to win the third set, paving the way for his ultimate victory. “At match point, I felt like giving in,” Nishikori confessed. “He was playing exceptionally well and gained momentum. But somehow, I managed to push through.”

His remarkable win exemplifies Nishikori’s tenacity and spirit. Now 35, he once reached a career-high ranking of No. 4 and was a finalist at the US Open in 2014. With this win, he advances to the second round of the Australian Open, where he will encounter either Tommy Paul or Christopher O’Connell.

 

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Kei Nishikori in 2025

Kei Nishikori (image)
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5 – 1win/loss

Hard
51
Rank
74
High
4

Age: 35

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2025 Highlights
F
Hong Kong
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Currently ranked No.74 in the world, the Japanese star last competed on January 12, where he triumphed over world No. 106 Thiago Moura Monteiro with scores of 4-6, 6-7(4), 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 in the opening round of the Australian Open.

This season, Kei has recorded an impressive 5-1 win-loss record, with his standout achievement being his reach to the final in Hong Kong.

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Australian Open
Nishikori’s Record
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