Fan Questions: Nishikori Reflects On Federer's Influence, Gives Juniors Advice
Kei Nishikori on Monday advanced to the second round of the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell, where the Japanese star is pursuing his third title. The former World No. 4, who owns 12 tour-level trophies, triumphed at this ATP 500 event in 2014 and 2015.
Nishikori caught up with ATPTour.com to answer questions that fans recently submitted on Twitter.
What have you been doing during quarantine?
I watch a lot of movies. I’ve been watching many documentaries now. I watch a little bit creepy ones.
Have you had any training changes recently that have helped improve your game?
I started working with Max recently. He tells me good things, how I should come in a little more and play aggressive. Of course also serve, too. He’s very disciplined. From the serve, he’s very good coming in. I’m not trying to come in every time, it’s been taking some time. But I think I’m getting used to it now, so I’m feeling good.
Who was your inspiration when you wanted to become a tennis player?
Roger. Just fun to watch. Of course he’s a great player, but also at the same time he’s very fun to watch. There are not too many players I get excited to watch, but he’s one of the best. He makes great shots that nobody can do and just fun to watch.
What’s your favourite match from over the years?
I really remember that I played David Ferrer the first time. It was the 2008 US Open, I was really young, 18, and I think he was Top 10 at that time. I beat him in five sets. It was one of the emotional matches for me, especially because I was young.
What is your best advice to a young player who wants to become a tennis player?
You have to have good commitment, you have to know that it’s not going to be easy and you’ve got to work hard. Tennis, it’s really fun to play and you get a lot of excitement on the court and if you become good, you can play with 10,000 people or maybe more. There are many fun things waiting.