Kei Nishikori: A Personal and Professional Journey
Kei Nishikori, a prominent figure in men’s tennis and the 2014 US Open runner-up, is in the spotlight for reasons beyond the court as he navigates a personal scandal involving infidelity. After a prolonged struggle with injuries that kept him out of competition for nearly two years, Nishikori made a notable comeback in June 2023. He experienced a promising start to 2025, achieving his longest injury-free stretch since 2021, including a return to form that led him to the final of the 2025 Hong Kong Open—his first ATP final in nearly six years.
The Setback
However, his journey has taken another unexpected turn following an injury at last month’s Geneva Open, which has sidelined him once more. As he comes to terms with this latest setback, a more personal crisis has emerged.
Public Acknowledgment of Infidelity
Nishikori publicly acknowledged his unfaithfulness to his spouse, Mai Yamauchi, revealing an affair with a 32-year-old model. In a heartfelt statement reported by Bunshun, he expressed deep remorse for his actions and their impact on his family and supporters.
Nishikori stated, “I sincerely apologize for causing distress to everyone who supports me; tennis fans, associations, sponsors, and others affected by my dishonesty.”
He further expressed regret for the pain inflicted on his wife and children, underscoring his commitment to rectifying his life and concentrating on his tennis career.
The Future of His Marriage
The star, known for his reserved demeanor, faces an uncertain future regarding his marriage after this revelation. His vow to focus exclusively on tennis may also signal an attempt to rebuild trust with his wife. Should their relationship end, Nishikori would not be the first tennis player to experience a public divorce.
Earlier this year, Naomi Osaka announced her amicable split from rapper Cordae after five years together, highlighting the challenges athletes face in balancing their personal and professional lives. Similarly, Anastasia Potapova and Alexander Shevchenko‘s wedding concluded in less than a year, demonstrating the pressures of public scrutiny.
The Broader Landscape
While some athletes may be wary of dating within the sport due to media attention, others like Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas are openly enjoying their relationships. The unfolding of Nishikori’s personal life adds a complex layer to the narrative of resilience he has built throughout his career, as he endeavors to regain both his health and the trust of those he has affected.
