"I feel motivated, it's the first time in a long time": Nishikori's strong message before 2026
After shining in the mid-2010s, the former world number four had gradually disappeared from the radar. Repeated injuries, long periods of absence… For many, the page seemed to have turned. But not for him.
His goal is clear: to return to Melbourne with rhythm, pleasure, and ambition.
"I can't project myself yet, but it's nice to play three matches here before the Australian Open rather than being under pressure there. I still have more weaknesses than strengths, and I would like to improve them.
What is positive is that I felt motivated, it's the first time in a long time. (…) If I reproduce this level in a match, I could make it, I feel that way," he said in an interview during a Challenger in Japan and relayed by Tennis Up To Date.
The first Grand Slam of the season will begin on January 12 and end on February 1. At 35 years old and ranked 158th in the world, Nishikori hopes to be there, via a wildcard or the qualifications.
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