Profound Apology: Japanese Tennis Star Kei Nishikori Addresses Infidelity

Japanese tennis sensation Kei Nishikori has made the unprecedented decision to publicly apologise for infidelity in his marriage.

According to the Japanese tabloid Shukan Bunshun, the current world No. 61 has been involved in a long-term affair with model Azuki Oguchi, which he kept hidden from his wife.

The 35-year-old tied the knot with Mai Yamaguchi in 2020 and is a father to two children.

The scandal broke when images surfaced last week showing Nishikori visiting Oguchi’s apartment in Japan, along with them departing together.

In a statement to the media, Nishikori expressed his regrets, stating: “I sincerely apologise for the discomfort I have caused to everyone who has supported me: tennis fans, associations, sponsors, and all those affected by my dishonest actions.”

He further added, “I deeply regret the pain I have caused my wife and children.”

He went on to say, “Moving forward, I will dedicate myself exclusively to tennis competitions in a bid to fulfil my responsibilities as a conscientious member of society,” as part of his statement.

“We will do everything we can to rebuild their trust.”

Nishikori and Oguchi are reported to have first crossed paths in 2022 while in Hawaii.

In 2023, Oguchi was allegedly confronted by her then-partner regarding her relationship with Nishikori.

The Japanese tabloid suggests Nishikori, who reached the quarter-finals at Wimbledon in 2018 and 2019, sought legal advice in an effort to mediate and avert a public scandal.

It’s reported that Nishikori and Oguchi’s relationship ended in 2023 but reignited in 2024 after the tennis player allegedly told her that he “no longer loves his wife” and that they were together only for the benefit of their children.

Nishikori made history as the first Asian male player to reach a Grand Slam final, ultimately finishing as a runner-up to Marin Cilic at the 2014 US Open.

His highest career ranking was No. 4 in the world.