Roger Federer Praises Kei Nishikori at Retirement Event in Tokyo

Kei Nishikori was honored for his career achievements on October 11, 2026, during a special event titled UNIQLO LifeWear Day Tokyo 2026 with Kei Nishikori at the Ariake Coliseum, according to reports from topics.smt.docomo.ne.jp and news.yahoo.co.jp. The commemoration took place at the same venue where the 36-year-old former world No. 4 played the final match of his professional career on October 1, 2026, falling in the first round of the Kinoshita Group Japan Open Tennis Championships against Frances Tiafoe.

Ariake Coliseum Hosts Retirement Celebration for Nishikori

Organized by Uniqlo, where Nishikori serves as a global brand ambassador, the four-hour event drew approximately 9,000 spectators selected through a public lottery system. The gathering celebrated Nishikori’s career milestones while offering the player an opportunity to express gratitude to his supporters.

Exhibition Matches Feature Tennis Legends on New Mix Court

Roger Federer, a fellow Uniqlo brand ambassador and tennis legend, participated in the festivities alongside wheelchair tennis icon Shingo Kunieda and Gordon Reid. The four players contested a doubles match before Nishikori and Federer teamed up for their first-ever joint partnership in a second exhibition match. The newly formed duo defeated the pairing of former Japanese tennis standouts Go Soeda and Satoshi Iwabuchi.

Federer and Nishikori Reflect on Rivalry and Character

Reflecting on his head-to-head history against Federer, which ended with three wins and eight losses during his active career, Nishikori praised the Swiss star’s playing level. Federer has no weaknesses, Nishikori said, as reported by topics.smt.docomo.ne.jp and news.yahoo.co.jp. Balls come back at an incredibly fast pace. But when he hits a super shot, at the same time I think ‘damn,’ I also feel a little happy. In a serious match, thinking, ‘He hits a shot like that.’

During a joint press conference following the event, Federer offered high praise for the Japanese player’s overall impact on the sport. He was a truly remarkable presence that stood out from the rest. I hope attention gathers not only on his playing side—his wonderful backhand, touch, and speed on the court—but also on the ‘humanity’ that supported him as a player and what he brought to this sport. He was a very stimulating opponent from a competitive standpoint.