Japan's Kei Nishikori said Friday he will make his competitive comeback in the French Open after not playing since March, but said he is anxious ahead of the clay-court major.
Speaking at a press conference at Roland Garros two days ahead of the Monday kickoff, Nishikori, who has not played in a Grand Slam tournament since the 2021 U.S. Open, said it was far from ideal to be returning to action at such a high-profile event.
Nishikori has played in only two ATP Tour events since October 2021, having suffered through a string of injuries. His March comeback in Miami this year lasted just one match.
"I had some pain in Miami that has lingered for a long time and (the injury) hasn't healed well," Nishikori said.
"Playing a Grand Slam all of a sudden after three months off feels like a high-risk thing. I don't know whether there's potentially a high return, but I think there is value in playing."
"Honestly, I'm feeling anxious, and I seriously want to stay out of five-set matches."
Nishikori said he has been getting in intense practice for his challenge in the past week.
"Last week I practiced in Monaco, and in one week I played two or three times against top-10 players," he said. "Real games are different, but I feel like I have a chance."
