By Erik Gudris | Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Japan's own Kei Nishikori, having recently reached the US Open final, enjoyed a hero's welcome as he stepped onto the stadium court at the Rakuten Japan Open Tennis Championships in Tokyo.
A sold-out arena of 10,000-plus spectators enjoyed watching the No. 4 seed take on the always dangerous, big-serving Ivan Dodig. Despite struggling a bit in the opening set to read Dodig's serve, Nishikori would eventually prove the better player with a 6-3, 6-4 win.
Fresh off winning Kuala Lumpur last week, Nishikori said he enjoys being back home.
"I try not to pay attention to the crowd or what the opponent is doing, but it's always good to play at home. I can feel the support here," Nishikori said to ATPWorldTour.com.
With seeds Stan Wawrinka, David Ferrer and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga crashing out of the event early, Nishikori now finds himself the favorite to win a second Tokyo title since claiming it two years ago.
Next up for Nishikori is Donald Young.
Johnson Earns Comeback Win to Reach Quarterfinals.
American Steve Johnson overcame some stellar play from Marcel Granollers to reach the elite eight in Tokyo. The Spaniard looked to be in control, especially after a fine get in the second set (below). Johnson would eventually take that set and soon earn a break in the decider. Showing no hesitation, Johnson served out the 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 win. France's Gilles Simon is next. Simon fought back from being way behind early to Gilles Muller before the Frenchman pulled out the 4-6, 7-6(1), 6-3 win.
(Photo Credit: AP)