In an exciting turn of events at the Australian Open, tennis star Kei Nishikori made a spectacular comeback that has left fans buzzing. Facing Thiago Monteiro, Nishikori found himself in a tough spot, losing the first two sets. Many thought he might give up, but he pushed through and rallied to win the match. This victory not only highlights his resilience but also adds another impressive record to his career.
Kei Nishikori Equals Lleyton Hewitt’s Record
Nishikori’s thrilling match ended with a final score of 4-6, 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-2, 6-3. By securing this victory, he has matched an incredible record set by another Australian tennis great, Lleyton Hewitt, who also made a notable comeback in his own Australian Open matches. Now, Nishikori is part of an esteemed group alongside renowned players like Pete Korda and Pete Sampras who have achieved significant milestones during this major tournament.
A Match of High Drama
This match was nothing short of dramatic. Nishikori faced eleven break points, including two critical match points during the third set, which had everyone on the edge of their seats. He saved these match points, showing his determination and skill under pressure. Nishikori himself later spoke about the nail-biting experience, admitting that he almost thought about giving up because Monteiro’s play was so strong.
The Comeback Kid
After losing the first two sets, Nishikori didn’t back down. He regrouped and started the comeback by winning the third set 7-5. Following that, he dominated the next two sets, taking them comfortably at 6-2 and 6-3. This match marked his first appearance in the second round of the Australian Open since 2019, and fans are thrilled to see him back in form.
Impressive Five-Set Record
- Nishikori’s career five-set record now stands at 29 wins and only 8 losses, giving him a winning rate of 78.4%.
- To put that in perspective, the legendary Bjorn Borg holds the best five-set record in the Open Era with 27 wins and 6 losses.
- Nishikori’s performance at the Australian Open has been particularly strong, winning eight of his nine five-set matches in the tournament.
Looking Ahead
As Nishikori advances to the next round, he will face either Tommy Paul or Christopher O’Connell. If he continues his excellent form, there is a possibility of meeting the sixth seed, Casper Ruud, in the upcoming matches. Fans are eager to see how far he can go in this tournament after his impressive comeback.
What’s Next for Kei Nishikori?
After this stunning victory, Nishikori is back in the spotlight, proving that he has still got what it takes to compete at the highest level. His journey at the Australian Open is far from over, and fans are excited to support him in his quest for more victories. As he continues to play, his experience and skill will surely make for some more exciting matches.