Tennis

Kei Nishikori downs John Isner to prevail in Citi Open final

Kei Nishikori showcased his brilliance in the Citi Open final as he sealed a comeback win to ultimately clinch the tournament title.

With the US Open coming up real soon, this was destined to be a warm-up tournament for the Japanese tennis star, and he certainly sent a timely reminder to his rivals by winning in the final.

Isner claimed the first set 6-4, though Nishikori eventually rallied back to seal the following two sets by the exact same score line, allowing him to collect his 10th career title. But the man himself, is already turning his attention towards a bigger goal.

“I just can’t wait to play the US Open,” Nishikori, who was runners up to Marin Cilic last year, told AP. “I’m just excited again, playing on a big stage.”

Isner on the other hand, was gracious in defeats, pointing out that he lacked cutting edge in the final.

“I’m certainly a bit low on fuel, probably, but as far as health goes, there’s nothing [injured] per se. … Maybe I didn’t have quite as much pop on my serve today,” Isner said. “I’ve thrown a lot of pitches the last two weeks.”

 

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