Wednesday 12 August 2015 15:45, UK
Kei Nishikori described his defeat to Marin Cilic in the final of the US Open as ‘one of my worst ever matches’.
The 24-year-old admitted feeling disappointed after being trounced 6-3 6-3 6-3 in under two hours in New York.
The 10th seed from Japan was no match for Croatian Cilic, who fired down 17 aces, and Nishikori said: "I was a little bit tight and nervous, playing my first final.
"I was trying to concentrate but it wasn't enough, I guess. Played too much tennis on the court these two weeks. Couldn't fight one more match.
"It was one of the worst matches I played today."
He had hoped to become the first Asian to win a men’s grand slam singles crown but in the end the weight of expectation proved too much at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Nishikori added: "You know, I'm disappointed, but it was a good two weeks. I learned from these two weeks.
"I didn't expect anything coming here. Before I was injured and had little practice.
"I think I showed my potential. I can beat anybody now. So if I can keep training hard and also practise hard, I think I’ll have more chances coming up."
The Florida-based player could only convert one of nine break points and he conceded: "There were so many unforced errors that I usually don't have.
“It was windy. It was tough to play for both of us. But he served great and very aggressive, both forehand, backhand."
As for making history in being the first grand slam singles finalist from Japan, he said: “Really happy to make a lot of history and, you know, great compliments.
"You know, tennis has not been the biggest sport in Japan. Women's, yes, but men never make it this far.
"Hopefully I can win next time and have something more."
