Nishikori makes the most of return to the desert

Kei Nshikori got cramping under control on Wednesday to move into the second round of the Indian Wells Masters as the 2014 US Open finalist defeated Spain’s Jaume Munar 6-2, 5-7, 7-6 (3).

The Japanese veteran whose last decade on court has been an extended series of injury comebacks was treated by the physio in the third set for cramps but pulled through to advance after two hours.

“It was not easy. I almost gave up because I was struggling with my body,” the winner who once reached fourth in the world said.

“In the third set I was cramping pretty badly, but somehow I came back and won, so a very good match.”

The No. 76 is coming off a January final in Hong Kong, his first on the Tour in six frustrating seasons.

He had to fight back after losing a lead in the second set, winning in the deciding third.

“I knew I was playing well from the beginning, and he took the chance in the second set, but even then, I was still happy with my tennis,” he said.

“I just tried to stay focused; he had chances in the third set, but I tried to compete and fight until the end.”

Nishikori salvaged 10 of 14 break points in his fighting win and next plays Frenchman  Ugo Humbert.

Main photo:- Kei Nishikori overcame cramping to advance into Indian Wells second round – my ATPTour.com