Japanese tennis player Kei Nishikori has publicly apologised after reports emerged of a years-long affair with model Azuki Oguchi whilst married to his wife Mai Yamaguchi.
The 35-year-old athlete addressed the allegations just two days after withdrawing from Wimbledon due to injury.
According to Japanese publication Shukan Bunshun, the World No 61 was photographed visiting Oguchi's flat in Japan last week, leading to revelations about their alleged relationship.
The former World No 4 issued what he described as a "deep" apology to his wife and their two children, aged four and one.
Japanese tennis player Kei Nishikori has publicly apologised after reports emerged of a years-long affair with model Azuki Oguchi whilst married to his wife Mai Yamaguchi
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Nishikori also extended his apologies to tennis fans, associations, sponsors and other related parties for what he termed his "dishonest behavior".
The reported infidelity came to light after the former US Open finalist was photographed visiting Oguchi's apartment in Japan last week. Shukan Bunshun reported that Nishikori first met Oguchi in 2022 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The publication alleged that in 2023, Oguchi's then-boyfriend confronted her about the affair after discovering the relationship. The unnamed partner reportedly also spoke directly to Nishikori about the situation.
Kei Nishikori has said he will work hard to regain his wife's trust after the former Wimbledon star apologised for being unfaithful
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According to the outlet, the former Wimbledon quarter-finalist hired a lawyer to mediate and avoid a public scandal at that time.
The relationship with Oguchi allegedly ended shortly afterwards but resumed last year when Nishikori reportedly told her he "no longer loves his wife" and that they remained together solely for their children.
In his statement, Nishikori said: "I deeply apologise for causing discomfort to everyone who supports me: tennis fans, associations, sponsors, and other related parties, and for their concern and inconvenience due to my dishonest behavior."
He continued: "Additionally, I deeply regret making my wife and children feel hurt."
The tennis star pledged to change his behaviour going forward, stating: "Moving forward, in order to fulfil my role as a responsible member of society, I will focus solely on tennis competitions and achieving results. We will do everything possible to regain their trust."
Nishikori has struggled with persistent injuries throughout the season, forcing him to withdraw from both the French Open and Wimbledon.
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Nishikori and Yamaguchi, also known by her nickname Ako Mizuki, married in 2020 after beginning their relationship in 2015. The couple have two children together.
The tennis player's withdrawal from Wimbledon came just days before he addressed the scandal publicly.
His injury struggles have plagued him throughout the current season, preventing him from competing at both Roland Garros and the All England Club.
Kei Nishikori pictured playing at Wimbledon last year
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The revelations mark a significant personal crisis for the former World No 4, who reached the US Open final in 2014 and achieved quarter-final appearances at Wimbledon.
His current ranking of 61st reflects his recent battles with fitness issues that have limited his tournament participation.
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