Japan’s Kei Nishikori, currently the highest-ranked ATP player in Asia, became the first tennis player to be part of the “Human to Hero” campaign initiated by cable network CNN. The show features the dedication, discipline and determination which one should have in order to make it big in the sporting world.
CNN has tagged Nishikori as “Japan’s “rock star” tennis pro.” In the interview, the 23-year old shared his goals as a tennis professional player, which include winning a Grand Slam title someday and becoming an ambassador of the sport to inspire the future generation of players to follow his footsteps.
“It’s still weird for me to think I’m the No. 1 player in Asia,” he said.
“I go back to Japan three or four times a year. People realise it on the street. It’s not easy because you don’t get to relax, but at the same time, l try to enjoy,” he added.
Nishikori is now just a few points away from becoming part of the world’s top ten. He’s currently ranked 11th in the world. The last time an Asian player made it in the elite top ten was Paradorn Srichaphan of Thailand in 2004.
