MUBADALA DC OPEN

July 27, 2026

Kei Nishikori

Press Conference

K. NISHIKORI/J. Shang

6-7, 6-3, 6-4

THE MODERATOR: Kei, congratulations. How good does it feel to win this match today?

KEI NISHIKORI: Always feels great to win a match. Especially in a big moment, big match, and a big tournament.

It wasn't easy. I think we both kind of started shaky, many unforced errors. But I think, especially me, I started playing better in second, and third played pretty solid today.

THE MODERATOR: Questions.

Q. You said you hadn't played for a while at this level especially, so how did it feel? How are you feeling physically now that it's over?

KEI NISHIKORI: I was pretty tired, honestly, and in the third set, end of the third set. But obviously I was staying calm and focused, and I didn't face any break points. That was great focus I think today.

Yeah, I mean, obviously you can see that he was a bit off. First match since -- I don't know when was last match, but it's been long time, and he was giving me some chances today. So I was a bit lucky today to win the match.

Q. You have spoken about how the physical toll of your injuries has kind of led to your decision to retire. So did today's match remind you more of what you'll miss or give you a sense of peace with your decision?

KEI NISHIKORI: I mean, I was okay today, and I'm okay now, but I don't know if I can play three or four matches straight. So that's the next goal to see if I can play many matches.

I know it's going to be tough opponent next round, so I have to raise my level. I played good enough, but not best yet. So I need more time to get my tennis back.

Physically I'm still okay, so that's good thing.

Q. You play Fils or Jodar next. I'm curious, also, are there any young players who you have not gotten the chance to play yet in your career who you want to get the chance to play with in these last few tournaments? Anyone you are most excited to possibly face?

KEI NISHIKORI: Yeah, I'm happy to face both players. I mean, either one hits very hard and very fast, and I think that's the Next Gen tennis and that I'm not really used to. I think that's why I'm kind of excited to see how I can play and how it's going to be challenge for me. I try to do my best.

Q. Are there any other? Besides for Jodar and Fils, are there any other players, Fonseca, Tien, Alcaraz, who you would like to, if you could pick, if you could choose who you would get to play in one of your final few tournaments, who do you most want to play for the first time?

KEI NISHIKORI: Well, for sure Sinner and Alcaraz. I think I played enough with Sascha and Novak (smiling). I played already with Tien and Fonseca. If I have to choose, those two.