In the final set, Nishikori fought off 15-40 as his trademark wheels and stellar backhand helped push him ahead 4-2. He then broke on his first match point after Monteiro’s forehand clipped the tape and landed wide
During the opening week of the season, Nishikori advanced to the final in Hong Kong with wins over Denis Shapoalov, Karen Khachanov and Cameron Norrie (his semifinal opponent Shang Juncheng retired 1-4 down).
Sixth seed Casper Ruud also survived a deciding set situation. In a patchy performance, the three-time major finalist held off Jaume Munar, a semifinalist in Hong Kong, with a 6-3, 1-6, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 victory.
Ruud, who launched his 2025 with United Cup wins over Tomas Machac and Hubert Hurkacz, secured a quick break in the fifth set thanks to Munar’s double fault. The Norwegian’s defensive flair rewarded him with a 5-1 lead, drawing a botched volley from Munar before shutting the door moments later.
