The US Open 2014 marked a remarkable chapter in tennis history, showcasing the meteoric rise of two underdogs who defied the odds to reach the final. Marin Čilić and Kei Nishikori stunned the tennis world by overcoming legends Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in the semifinals. The final, won convincingly by Čilić, was expected to herald a new era in men’s tennis. However, nearly a decade later, both players find themselves outside the top 100 in the ATP rankings, grappling with injuries and inconsistencies that have hampered their careers.

2014 US Open: A Fairytale Run

In 2014, the dominance of the “Big Four”—Federer, Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray—was at its peak. Few could have predicted the shake-up that unfolded at Flushing Meadows that year. Both Čilić and Nishikori played the tournaments of their lives, overcoming two of the greatest players in history to set up an unexpected final.

Kei Nishikori became the first Asian man to reach a Grand Slam final, showcasing incredible skill and stamina as he defeated Novak Djokovic in a grueling four-set semifinal. Nishikori’s speed and shot precision dismantled Djokovic’s typically impenetrable defense, making headlines across the globe.

Marin Čilić, on the other hand, delivered one of the most dominant performances of his career against Roger Federer. In straight sets, Čilić unleashed a barrage of aces and powerful groundstrokes that left Federer struggling to find answers. The victory paved the way for Čilić to secure his first and only Grand Slam title, defeating Nishikori in straight sets in the final.

The Aftermath: High Expectations and Mixed Fortunes

The 2014 triumph was expected to be a springboard for Čilić and Nishikori to establish themselves as consistent Grand Slam contenders. While both players enjoyed periods of success in the following years, neither managed to consistently challenge the Big Four.

Marin Čilić
Čilić climbed to a career-high ranking of World No. 3 in 2018 and reached the final of Wimbledon (2017) and the Australian Open (2018). However, his performances in Grand Slams remained erratic, and injuries began to take a toll on his game. By 2023, persistent knee issues sidelined Čilić for most of the season, causing his ranking to plummet outside the top 100.

Despite his struggles, Čilić remains one of the most respected players on the tour. With his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play, he can still pose a threat when fully fit. However, at 35 years old, time is no longer on his side, and a full comeback to the top ranks seems increasingly challenging.

Kei Nishikori
Nishikori’s career trajectory was similarly marred by injuries. Known for his exceptional speed and baseline consistency, he reached the finals of multiple Masters 1000 events and climbed to a career-high ranking of World No. 4 in 2015. He was a fixture in the ATP Finals during his prime years.

However, wrist, elbow, and hip injuries plagued Nishikori, forcing him to miss significant portions of multiple seasons. By 2022, after undergoing hip surgery, Nishikori’s ranking dropped out of the top 100. His attempts at a comeback in 2023 showed glimpses of his former brilliance, but the consistency needed to compete at the highest level has been elusive.

Challenges Beyond Injuries

The decline of Čilić and Nishikori is not solely attributable to injuries. The evolving dynamics of men’s tennis have also played a role. The emergence of a new generation of stars, including Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Holger Rune, has made the ATP Tour more competitive than ever. Younger players are not only physically fitter but also equipped with the tools to dominate matches with power and precision.

Moreover, the longevity of the Big Three—Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic—has meant fewer opportunities for other players to claim titles. While Čilić and Nishikori had moments of brilliance, they struggled to maintain the level required to consistently challenge these legends and the rising stars.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Despite their current struggles, the legacies of Marin Čilić and Kei Nishikori remain intact. Their performances at the 2014 US Open demonstrated that tennis is a sport where the underdog can shine, even in an era dominated by all-time greats.

For Nishikori, his impact goes beyond his achievements on the court. As a trailblazer for Asian tennis, he has inspired countless young players in the region to pursue the sport at a professional level. His popularity in Japan and across Asia has been instrumental in growing tennis’s global appeal.

Similarly, Čilić’s journey from a promising junior to a Grand Slam champion serves as a testament to hard work and perseverance. His victory at the US Open is a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that define tennis at its best.

Hopes for a Comeback

Both Čilić and Nishikori have expressed their desire to continue competing despite their ranking slumps. Čilić, who has proven his resilience in the past, remains optimistic about a return to form. His experience and powerful game could see him make a strong showing in smaller tournaments as he rebuilds his confidence.

Nishikori, too, is determined to overcome his injury struggles. His work ethic and love for the game have been evident throughout his career, and fans continue to hope for one last resurgence from the Japanese star.

Conclusion

Marin Čilić and Kei Nishikori’s journeys from the heights of the 2014 US Open to their current struggles outside the top 100 serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges professional athletes face. Their stories reflect not only the triumphs but also the hardships that come with pursuing greatness in a sport as demanding as tennis.

While their rankings may no longer place them among the elite, their impact on the sport remains undeniable. As they strive for a return to competitive relevance, Čilić and Nishikori continue to inspire fans and young players worldwide, proving that the spirit of competition and the love of the game transcend rankings and accolades.