Gael Monfils says what he really thinks about Kei Nishikori as he pulls out of the Australian Open

However, unlike Monfils, Nishikori won’t be playing in Melbourne, having been forced to withdraw due to injury.

During his pre-tournament press conference, Monfils was asked to share his thoughts on Nishikori.

Gael Monfils says Kei Nishikori is a ‘big champion’

Monfils was asked about Nishikori’s injury and what he thought about his decision to withdraw.

“I actually got hurt at 36 years old as well,” he said.

“Almost a year out. It’s not easy. It’s not the best.

“It’s not ideal, but I’m sure that he’s put in all the work to put himself in the position that he can play maybe a couple more years or one more year as well.

“I know he’s a hard worker. So definitely, you know, it will take even a bit more sacrifice.”

The Frenchman then spoke about Nishikori’s legacy.

“For me as a champion, he’s a big champion,” said Monfils.

“He’s someone who changed the game, the way he’s been playing, the way — I mean, his legacy is big.

“So I have no doubt that if he wants to challenge himself, he will succeed.”

Monfils and Nishikori played five matches against each other during their ATP Tour careers.

Nishikori leads their head-to-head 4-1.

Naomi Osaka ‘hopes’ Kei Nishikori gets healthy soon

Also speaking about Nishikori during her pre-tournament press conference, Naomi Osaka had some kind words to say about the former world number four.

“He’s like the guy that was holding Japanese tennis up so high for so long,” she said.

“I saw him a couple days ago. I was really excited. I wanted to go watch his match actually. It’s sad that he pulled out.

“I still remember the US Open, we both went to the semis. It was just so fun. He was, like, inviting me to dinners. As a young kid, I was so excited just to have the opportunity to spend time with him.

“I’m really grateful for him. I hope that he gets healthy soon. I hope that I’m able to watch him play.”

Nishikori was the first Japanese player to reach a Grand Slam final, but Osaka was the first to win a major title.

With Nishikori approaching the end of his career, it’s unlikely that he will ever get his hands on a Grand Slam.

Osaka still has time to add to her tally of four majors, though, and could even be a dark horse to win the Australian Open.

She will begin her 2026 Australian Open campaign against Croatia’s Antonia Ruzic.