The Japanese tennis player Kei Nishikori has been competing at the big tournaments since 2007. Winning 12 ATP singles titles until now, the 30-year old has reached his highest ranking of Number 4. His best achievement at a major tournament is finishing runner-up at the 2014 US Open. Waiting for his first major title, the current World No. 41 talks about the pressure associated with it.

Nishikori ended the drought of 96 years for Japan when he won a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. For the medal, he defeated the Spanish great Rafael Nadal. Additionally, he is the only male Japanese player to date to ever make it into the Top 5 tennis players. But, even so, he aims to win the biggest glory in tennis.

“I have pressure about that”: Kei Nishikori

For all professional tennis players, everything looks inadequate without a Grand Slam title. Kei is no different than any as he still misses a major title in his trophy cabinet. However, putting up great expectations must also bring pressure on him.

The Japanese said, “I still haven’t won a Grand Slam, I have pressure about that, my coach always tells me about that too.” But, before pressure, the 30-year old Japanese is optimistic that determination can lead him to the title.

“If you try things right in front of you with all your might, have practice & training, and prepare yourself mentally, I believe victory will come as a result,” Kei added. Although the Japanese missed the Australian Open this year due to an injured elbow, he might play next year.

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“I feel pressure to win during a match”: Nishikori

In tennis, a player is required to put all at stake in every match to go ahead in a tournament. Sometimes that can take a toll on the player’s mental stability. Instead of the opponent, one’s self-balance becomes more important in the game.

“I don’t feel much pressure actually, from who should I feel pressure, I don’t know. I sometimes feel pressure to win during a match for sure,” Nishikori said.

Moving forward, the Japanese will be charged enough to fulfill his dream season where he lifts a Grand Slam title. Attaining to the tough conditions in Melbourne Park will also be a key factor to decide Nishikori’s fate. Do you think he will, one day, lift a Grand Slam title?

Also Read: “Want to Compete at That Level Again”: Kei Nishikori Gives Injury Update