From ATP Champion to TV Icon: Shuzo Matsuoka Discusses Alcaraz & Sinner’s Revolutionary Approach
Former World No. 46, now thriving as a motivational speaker, graces the Nitto ATP Finals.
November 14, 2025
Andrew Eichenholz/ATP Tour
Shuzo Matsuoka is in Turin, offering commentary at the prestigious 2025 Nitto ATP Finals.
By Andy West
The ATP Tour is navigating through an exhilarating transformation, and Shuzo Matsuoka is keenly aware of this shift.
A prominent figure in Japan as a sports commentator and motivational speaker, Matsuoka’s insights on tennis are backed by a rich history as a former No. 46 in the PIF ATP Rankings, an ATP Tour champion, and a Wimbledon quarter-finalist in 1995.
This week marks a special occasion for Matsuoka, who is attending the Nitto ATP Finals in person for the first time, after years of commentary from a studio in Japan. The 58-year-old wasted no time discussing the standout players of the tour.
“Currently, I’m impressed by [Carlos] Alcaraz and [Jannik] Sinner,” Matsuoka shared with ATPTour.com in Turin. “I had the pleasure of interviewing them at both the Australian Open and the US Open, and they were incredibly gracious.”
“Having coached juniors for 25 years at the Japan Tennis Association, including stars like Kei Nishikori, I realize tennis has evolved dramatically. Alcaraz and Sinner showcase a ‘new tennis’. Their demeanor and the way they interact is refreshing. Hence, I’ve also embraced change in my communication style. Japan needs to foster this new generation and adapt to this evolving mentality in tennis,” he added.
Matsuoka, boasting 145 tour-level victories according to the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index, is in Turin delivering commentary for Japanese broadcaster UNEXT. He’s also documenting his experiences at the Finals.
“I am thrilled,” he expressed. “This is my first visit to the event. Previously, my commentary involved big names like Kei Nishikori and Novak Djokovic from Japan, but experiencing it live is a game changer. The atmosphere here is truly electrifying.”
“I aim to showcase the grandeur of the Nitto ATP Finals and highlight the advancements in tennis to audiences back in Japan. It’s about sharing the entire experience — the show, the food, and the ambiance. These aspects are crucial. My goal is to absorb as much as possible from here to enrich the Japan Open and invigorate the tennis experience in my country,” he mentioned.
Matsuoka’s vibrant and diverse career beyond the tennis court includes motivational speaking. Globally recognized, he shares inspiring messages through short videos and has hosted a weekly cooking show, Kuishinbo! Bansai, since 2000. His visits to Italy also serve to highlight the social significance of culinary experiences.
“Food is a passion linked to emotions,” he remarked. “Italy embodies this sentiment within its culture. Dining is a communal joy, best shared with family and friends—it enhances the experience. With just a couple of days here, I’m eager to indulge in the local cuisine and explore restaurants. I recently had a pizza here, and it’s an entirely different flavor compared to Japan.”
