Kei Nishikori believes tennis hasn’t seen someone like Carlos Alcaraz despite playing with the ‘Big 3’ for most of his career

Kei Nishikori is gearing up to take on a host of talented young players on the US courts.

Kei Nishikori believes tennis hasn’t seen someone like Carlos Alcaraz despite playing with the ‘Big 3’ for most of his career

Kei Nishikaro, Carlos Alcaraz (Credits:- Kyodo and The Mirror)

Kei Nishikori lauded rising sensation Carlos Alcaraz, describing him as a player the tennis world has never seen before. Nishikori, who has spent much of his career battling against the famed ‘Big 3’ – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic – recently made a comeback to the ATP Tour in Atlanta after a break of 21 months. His excitement at the prospect of facing young talents such as Alcaraz, Holger Rune, and Jannik Sinner spurred his determination to make a stunning recovery from his injuries.

Alcaraz has made a significant impression on the sport over the last two years, with an impressive rise that has included two Grand Slam wins and reaching the world’s No. 1 ranking. His biggest success came just a few weeks ago, when he upset Serbian icon Djokovic in a thrilling Wimbledon final, firmly establishing himself as the game’s brightest new star.

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Nishikori, known for his determination and skill on the court, praised Alcaraz, comparing him to the legendary Rafael Nadal but with a touch of ‘more speed.’ He praised Alcaraz’s superb defense, incredible forehand, and solid backhand, which have contributed to his unparalleled success.

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“I don’t think we have seen anyone like Alcaraz before. He looks like Rafa but he has more speed. Good defence, unbelievable forehand and he has a good backhand too,” said the Japanese.

Also read: Carlos Alcaraz tattoos: What do they mean and what are their significance?

Kei Nishikori is set to make his comeback on the US courts

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Kei Nishikaro (Credit: Sportsmatik)

Nishikori will compete in the ATP 500 Citi Open in Washington DC before returning to the US Open, where he reached the final in 2014 but lost the trophy to Marin Cilic. This will be his first Grand Slam debut in two years.

Reflecting on his own rise to the top, Nishikori highlighted how a timely choice to undergo hip surgery rescued him from a situation like that of Andy Murray, who had been playing with a metal hip for several years. Fortunately, his surgery prevented the problem from worsening, allowing him to return to the sport with fresh zeal.

“I’m just so happy to be back here playing,” Nishikori said, underlining that he can now play without feeling rushed, allowing him to appreciate the game once more. He expressed excitement about fighting against the best players and praised his coaching staff, Max Mirnyi and Michael Chang, for their constant belief in him.

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