Here’s everything you need to know about Kei Nishikori in 2025, from his net worth to his tennis career and more—all in a friendly, easy-to-read style!
Kei Nishikori’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
| Name | Kei Nishikori |
| Nickname | Special Kei |
| Born | December 29, 1989 |
| Age | 35 years |
| College | Aomori-Yamada High School |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Height | 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) |
| Turned Pro | 2007 |
| Net Worth | $24 million |
| Prize Money | $25,973,785 |
| Spouse | Mai Yamauchi |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @keinishikori |
Kei Nishikori is one of Japan’s most celebrated athletes, known for his remarkable journey from Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, to the global tennis stage. His personal life has often been in the spotlight, especially due to his high-profile marriage and recent controversies.
Early Career
Kei Nishikori started playing tennis at age five and quickly rose through Japan’s junior ranks. By 14, he moved to Florida to join the IMG Academy, a pivotal step that shaped his future. Nishikori turned professional in 2007, and just a year later, he won his first ATP title at the Delray Beach Open, becoming the youngest ATP champion since 1998. His junior career was marked by a French Open boys’ doubles title and consistent top-10 junior rankings.
Professional Career
Nishikori’s professional breakthrough came in 2014 when he reached the US Open final, making history as the first Asian man to contest a Grand Slam singles final in the Open Era. He achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 4 in March 2015. Over his career, Nishikori has won 12 ATP singles titles and secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, defeating Rafael Nadal. Known for his speed and relentless baseline play, he has consistently challenged the world’s best, reaching the semifinals of the ATP Finals and quarterfinals in all Grand Slams. Despite injuries, Nishikori’s resilience and determination have kept him among the elite, earning him respect and admiration worldwide.
Wife
Kei Nishikori is married to Mai Yamauchi, with whom he tied the knot in December 2020 after a long-term relationship. The couple has two children. Despite recent media attention due to personal controversies, Nishikori remains committed to his family and career.
Kei Nishikori’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Kei Nishikori’s net worth is estimated at $24 million. His wealth comes from prize money, lucrative sponsorships, and endorsements with global brands. Nishikori’s financial success reflects his achievements both on and off the court.
Prize Money
| Year | Prize Money (USD) |
| 2023 | $1,150,000 |
| 2024 | $1,200,000 |
| Career Total | $25,973,785 |
Nishikori’s total career prize money exceeds $25 million, placing him among the top earners in tennis history.
Endorsements
- Uniqlo (apparel sponsor)
- Wilson (racquet sponsor)
- Asahi Breweries
- NTT Group
- Japan Airlines
- Lixil
- Weider
- Jaccs
- Jaguar
- Air Weave
- TAG Heuer
- Nissin Foods
- Adidas (past)
- EA Games (past)
- Delta Air Lines (past)
Nishikori’s marketability has made him one of the highest-paid athletes in Asia, with endorsement deals spanning diverse industries.
Career Records
| Opponent | Wins | Losses | Notable Matches |
| Marin Čilić | 10 | 6 | 2014 US Open Final (Runner-up) |
| Stan Wawrinka | 4 | 7 | 2014 US Open Quarterfinal (Win) |
| Milos Raonic | 5 | 2 | 2014 US Open Fourth Round (Win) |
| Rafael Nadal | 2 | 12 | 2016 Rio Olympics Bronze Medal (Win) |
| Novak Djokovic | 2 | 18 | 2014 US Open Semifinal (Win) |
| Roger Federer | 3 | 7 | 2014 Miami Masters (Win) |
FAQs
1. Who is Kei Nishikori?
Kei Nishikori is a Japanese professional tennis player, known as Japan’s finest ever in the sport. He is the only Japanese man to have reached the top five in the ATP singles rankings and has won 12 ATP titles.
2. What is Kei Nishikori’s highest career ranking?
Nishikori achieved his career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 4 in March 2015.
3. What are Kei Nishikori’s major career achievements?
He reached the final of the 2014 US Open, becoming the first man representing an Asian country to contest a Grand Slam singles final. He also won a bronze medal in singles at the 2016 Olympics.
4. What is Kei Nishikori’s playing style?
Nishikori is an aggressive baseliner with solid and consistent groundstrokes on both wings. He plays close to the baseline, uses compact and powerful strokes, and is known for his excellent return of serve.
5. How many ATP titles has Kei Nishikori won?
He has won 12 ATP singles titles, including a record four consecutive titles at the Memphis Open.
6. What are some of Kei Nishikori’s notable Grand Slam results?
He was a finalist at the 2014 US Open, semifinalist at the 2016 US Open, and has reached the quarterfinals multiple times at the Australian Open and French Open.
7. Has Kei Nishikori faced any major injuries?
Yes, Nishikori has had significant injuries, including hip surgery in 2022 and recurring ankle and back problems, which have affected his playing time and performance.
8. What is Kei Nishikori’s record in deciding sets?
He holds one of the highest percentages of deciding-set wins in the Open Era, with a win percentage of about 78.4% in five-set matches.
9. What is known about Kei Nishikori’s personal life?
Nishikori was born in Matsue, Japan, in 1989. He is married to Mai Yamaguchi since 2020, and they have two children.
10. What recent challenges has Kei Nishikori faced off the court?
In 2025, Nishikori was involved in a personal scandal regarding an alleged affair, for which he issued a public apology and expressed commitment to focus on his tennis career.