Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori has publicly responded to recent cheating allegations, expressing deep remorse for his actions. In a heartfelt statement shared with Japanese media outlet Shukan Bunshun on June 18, Nishikori, 35, acknowledged the distress he has caused to his family, fans, and sponsors due to his “dishonest behavior.”
“I deeply apologize for causing discomfort to everyone who supports me: tennis fans, associations, sponsors, and other related parties, and for their concern and inconvenience due to my dishonest behavior,” he stated. “Additionally, I deeply regret making my wife and children feel hurt.”
Nishikori has been married to Mai Yamaguchi since 2020, and the couple has two children together. The cheating rumors emerged after Nishikori was photographed with a model, igniting speculation about his fidelity.
In his statement, Nishikori emphasized his commitment to making amends and focusing on his responsibilities as both a professional athlete and a family man. “Moving forward, in order to fulfill my role as a responsible member of society, I will focus solely on tennis competitions and achieving results,” he added. “We will do everything possible to regain their trust.”
The tennis star has generally kept his personal life private, making this public apology particularly notable. He previously shared a glimpse into his life when he announced his marriage to Yamaguchi via social media in December 2022. In that post, he expressed gratitude for the support they received during their wedding ceremony, which had been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nishikori, who turned professional in 2007, has had a storied career, including a peak ATP ranking of No. 4 in 2015. However, he has faced challenges in recent years, including injuries that have affected his performance. Currently ranked No. 66, he withdrew from the French Open earlier this year due to lower back pain and was set to make a comeback at Wimbledon before withdrawing again due to ongoing injury concerns.
Despite these setbacks, Nishikori has expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his fans. After reaching the quarterfinals at the Australian Open earlier this year, he remarked on the positive energy he felt from the crowd, which motivated him to push through the matches.
As the tennis world watches closely, Nishikori’s next steps will be crucial not only for his career but also for rebuilding trust with his family and fans. His commitment to focusing on his professional responsibilities and personal integrity will be key as he navigates this challenging period in his life.
In a world where public figures often face scrutiny, Nishikori’s candid acknowledgment of his mistakes serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the impact of personal actions on loved ones and supporters alike. As he prepares to return to the court, fans will undoubtedly be hoping for both his professional success and personal redemption.