Japanese star's injury woes continue after Australian Open withdrawal

January 7, 2022

ATP Tennis Players, Australian Open, Tennis News

Kei Nishikori’s injury woes continue after being forced to withdraw from Australian Open

Kei Nishikori has offered an injury update and been forced to miss the upcoming Australian Open as he continues his recovery from a hip injury.

2014 US Open finalist Nishikori has been plagued with injuries throughout his career and as such has struggled for consistency. The Japanese star suffered an elbow injury in 2009, a wrist injury in 2017 and most recently sustained a back injury in 2021 which brought an end to his season.

Nishikori reached a career-high ranking of fourth just after becoming the first male Asian player to reach a Grand Slam final when he reached the 2014 US Open final.

The Japanese star hasn’t won silverware since winning the Brisbane International in January 2019, which was also his last appearance at a tour-level final.

Last month, Nishikori revealed that he “usually gets deeply depressed” when enduring injuries and faces the possibility of surgery, but has no desire to retire.

In a statement posted to Twitter, Nishikori said “Happy New Year everyone! Wishing you a healthy and happy 2022. A little update from my side that is less positive unfortunately.

“Since the end of last year I have been struggling with my hip. It is not 100% recovered yet and I will have to pull out of the Aussie [Australian] swing,” Nishikori announced.

“This is very disappointing as the Australian Open feels like my ‘home’ Grand Slam. The Asian Grand Slam.

“And [I] can’t wait to be back next year. I am working hard on my recovery and will do everything I can to be back on the court soon. Thanks for your support.”