Former US Open finalist Kei Nishikori has returned back to winning ways after defeating Mackenzie McDonald 6-1, 6-4, in the final of an ATP Challenger event in Dallas, Texas.
Playing in only his second tournament since returning to the tour following a wrist injury, Nishikori enjoyed an almost perfect run at the RBC Tennis Championships. Dropping just one set in the tournament. Taking on McDonald in the final on Saturday, Nishikori saved all four break points he faced and won 76% of his first service points. Earning him his first title on the Challenger tour since 2010.
“I’m happy to win and be done,” The Japan Times quoted him as saying after the final. “There were moments that were a little stiff, but I also feel like I came back to the game.
“I made it through a few tough matches. It was a good experience.”
Taking to social media after his victory over McDonald, the former world No.4 said that he is happy with how the past two weeks have gone for him. Prior to Dallas, Nishikori also played a Challenger in Newport. Losing in the first round to Dennis Novikov.
“Just a quick message to say thank you for all the messages. I played these two challenger weeks to get matches and am very happy with my progress. I feel good and this week was important for my confidence. Thank you!” He wrote on his Twitter account.
The triumph comes ahead of Nishikori’s return to the main stage of the ATP Tour. He is set to return to action at the inaugural New York Open, which will start on February 11th. Due to his recent absence, the 28-year-old has fallen out of the top 20 on the ATP Emirates rankings.
Looking ahead to his next event, Nishikori is relishing in the confidence boost that he has generated from Dallas this week. Telling the ATP Tour that he is currently experiencing no pain in his wrist.
“This week has given me a lot of confidence tennis wise and also my wrist was ok.” He explained.
“So that gives me a lot of confidence. It was four days in a row playing and it was good to have these kind of matches.”
Taking home $18,000 in prize money, Nishikori will still remain at 27th in the rankings.
