Cilic celebration short-lived with Tokyo loss

Marin Cilic’s celebrations after winning his first title in three years at the weekend were brought to a screeching halt by old rival Kei Nishikori in a Thursday first-round match in Tokyo.

The Croat who triumphed in Hangzhou was done and dusted in the first round at the Ariake Colosseum, eliminated -4, 3-6, 6-3 by the Japanese.

The match was a reversal of the 2014 US Open final, won by Cilic.

Former world No. 4 Nishikori has made yet another successful return from long-term injury this season; he heads the overall series with Cilic 10-6.

“There were a couple of special moments for me. Playing here is special for me. I haven’t played here in a long time,” Nishikori said. 

“We have played many great matches. I know I’ve had a tough time in the past two years and I have been in the same situation. 

“I was happy to play against Marin and very happy to win.”

Nishikori won the home title in Tokyo in 2012 and 2014, when he was in his prime and reigning as Asia’s top player

His win over Cilic took just over two hours as he profitted from 37 unforced errors from his veteran European opponent.

Main photo:- Marin Cilic won Hangzhou trophy last week ranked 777th in World