Nishikori remains on course for ATP Finals (Yahoo Sports)

Despite being one of the smallest players on the Tour, Kei Nishikori’s performances are not going unnoticed at home. Nishikori, who is bidding to become the first Asian-born player to qualify for the season-ending ATP Finals, is enjoying a breakthrough season in which he claimed four titles and reached the U.S. Although he lost in straight sets to Marin Cilic at Flushing Meadows, the 5-foot-10 player’s popularity reached new heights following his excellent run in New York. ”It’s been big change, especially in Japan,” Nishikori said after beating local favorite and former champion Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 at the Paris Masters on Thursday.