Japanese tennis player Kei Nishikori seems to have attracted a bit more attention off the court than he might have intended.
Ranked 61st in the world, Nishikori has been involved in a longstanding relationship with a model, according to the Japanese tabloid Shukan Bunshun.
In response, Nishikori issued an apology. “I sincerely regret any discomfort I may have caused fans, organizations, sponsors, and everyone who supports me due to my irresponsible actions,” he stated. “I also feel deep remorse for the hurt caused to my wife and children.”
Nishikori, who married Yamaguchi in 2020 after a five-year relationship, was recently spotted at Ogawa’s apartment in Japan, which led to tabloid coverage featuring their photos.
The couple has two children together, aged four and one.
“In order to move forward as a responsible member of society, I will concentrate on my tennis career and the pursuit of achieving my goals,” he continued in his statement. “I will work hard to rebuild trust.” Nishikori met Ogawa in Honolulu, Hawaii, back in 2022.
Reports indicate that in 2023, Ogawa confronted her boyfriend about her relationship with Nishikori.
Shukan Bunshun noted that Nishikori had engaged lawyers in 2018 and 2019 to help navigate public scrutiny.
Although their relationship ended in 2023, it appears to have rekindled in 2024 after Nishikori expressed feelings for Ogawa, indicating he “no longer loves his wife.”
The tennis star has had to withdraw from tournament events, including Wimbledon and the French Open, due to this scandal and an injury.
He made history as the first Asian player to reach a Grand Slam final, though he lost to Marin Cilic in the 2014 US Open. Nishikori has won 12 ATP titles and reached a career-high ranking of fourth in the world.
