Mon Jan 13 10:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Nishikori Survives Five-Set Thriller at Australian Open, Ruud Also Advances
**Melbourne, Australia** – Kei Nishikori battled back from the brink of defeat to secure a thrilling five-set victory over Thiago Monteiro at the Australian Open on Sunday. The Japanese veteran, now boasting a remarkable 29-8 record in five-setters, overcame a shaky start and two match points to triumph 4-6, 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-2, 6-3. This win also pushed his Australian Open win total to 28, surpassing his previous best at other Grand Slams.
Nishikori admitted to nearly giving up after Monteiro’s strong performance in the first two sets. He faced 11 break points, including two set points in the second, before finally breaking through in the third. His trademark athleticism and backhand proved crucial in the later stages, particularly in the final set where he fought off a break point at 2-2 before sealing the match with a break of serve.
“I tried to stay calm, even though I was almost out of the tournament,” Nishikori said. “I tried to focus on what I can do, tried to fight until the end.”
In other news from the tournament, sixth seed Casper Ruud also needed five sets to overcome Jaume Munar, winning 6-3, 1-6, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1. Ruud, a three-time major finalist, capitalized on Munar’s errors in the deciding set, securing an early break and coasting to victory. This win follows his strong start to the year at the United Cup. Both Nishikori and Ruud will advance to the next round of the Australian Open.
First Piper 