Nishikori appears alongside Federer at retirement event

Retired Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori appeared at an event on Sunday to commend the achievements of the former world No. 4 in the men’s singles rankings.

At the event held at the Ariake Coliseum indoor stadium in Tokyo’s Koto Ward, Nishikori held exhibition matches with Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer, who won 20 Grand Slam titles in the men’s singles, and others, and attended a talk show with them.

“I’m grateful, and this is what I felt most,” Nishikori said. “I’m happy that I had a good time.” He announced his decision to retire from professional competition earlier this year.

In Sunday’s event, Nishikori and Federer teamed up for a doubles match, wowing some 9,000 spectators who gathered to see the tennis stars. In the past, Nishikori had a full-set Grand Slam match with Federer.

Federer said that he respects Nishikori sincerely and that it is sad to see a great player like him to go.

Former leading Japanese wheelchair tennis player Shingo Kunieda also joined the event.

“I was happy when I was able to devote myself to tennis,” Nishikori said. “I hope I can share what I have experienced with young players.”