Shortly after his epic three sets win over Tomas Berdych, Kei Nishikori spoke about the daunting prospect of facing Roger Federer next.
Nishikori has played the 17-time Grand Slam champion on five previous occasions, defeating him twice in 2013 (Madrid) and 2014 (Miami). Nishikori is the youngest player participating in this weeks ATP Finals at the O2 Arena. At 8th in the world the Japanese player has won three titles on the ATP Tour this year compared to Federer who has claimed six. Looking ahead to his match against the Swiss second seed, Nishikori spoke about his excitement.
“ It’s going to be a really big challenge for me to play Roger. It’s always exciting. It’s going to be a really important match for both of us”. He said.
Nishikori was 9-years-old when Federer won his first Challenger title back in 1999 in Brest, France. Despite the age gap between the two players, Nishikori openly admitted that he doesn’t see the gap when he plays him on the court.
“He doesn’t look his age really, which is 34 I think. He is still improving his-self, playing great tennis at the age of 34. He doesn’t look old for me”. Nishikori explained.
“It’s a great honor to play Roger. Yeah, I actually never think about age on the court”.
34-year-old Federer has been repeatedly asked about his retirement plans, but has refused to set a date as to when he will finally hang up his racket. During a recent interview the former No.1 said that he will keep playing as ‘the love is still very much there’.
At 25-year-old Nishikori is currently the youngest player ranked inside the top ten in the world by three years. Speaking about his experience on the tour, the Japanese player said that he has gained a ‘more confidence and experience’.
“It’s great to play with a lot of support. It’s always have fun on the court. So I’m really enjoying on this tour”. Nishikori ended his press conference saying.
