SHENZHEN, China - Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) battled through three tough sets to capture his first tour-level trophy over Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA), 7-5, 2-6, 6-4. With the win, Nishioka becomes the fifth Japanese to win the Shenzhen Open men’s singles title in history.
Nishioka’s tenacious play and success following his injury is something only the most dedicated can comprehend. Just 18 months ago, he tore his left ACL at the 2017 Miami Open and after months of grueling rehabilitation, found himself back on the court in January of this year. Emotions welling, he covered his face with both hands and fell to the ground as Herbert netted a forehand return for the final point. Although his ranking retreated to the upper 300s following injury, he now sits firmly at world No. 95 and is setting the stage for a complete comeback.
After seven consecutive victories with tough opponents from preliminary to final, Nishioka makes his next appearance at the Rakuten Japan Open, starting today.
Photo: AFP/AFLO
<Men's Singles Final>
Yoshihito Nishoka (VCORE 98, POLYTOUR SPIN 125, Apparel, POWER CUSHION FUSIONREV2) (JPN) [95]
7-5, 2-6, 6-4
Pierre-Hugues Herbert (VCORE PRO 97) (FRA) [53]
For more information: https://www.atpworldtour.com/en/tournaments/shenzhen/6967/overview