TENNIS star Kei Nishikori has issued a public apology after cheating on his wife with a model.
According to Japanese outlet Shukan Bunshun, the former world No 4 is alleged to have had a years-long affair with model Azuki Oguchi.
The reported infidelity was uncovered after Nishikori, 35, was photographed visiting Oguchi’s apartment last week in Japan.
And Nishikori has issued a “deep” apology to wife Mai Yamaguchi and the pair’s two children – aged four and one – but only after saying sorry to his sponsors, fans and tennis chiefs.
According to Japanese press, Nishikori said in a statement: “I deeply apologise for causing discomfort to everyone who supports me: tennis fans, associations, sponsors, and other related parties, and for their concern and inconvenience due to my dishonest behaviour.
“Additionally, I deeply regret making my wife and children feel hurt.
The ex-US Open finalist also stated his plan to focus solely on the sport while being a “responsible member of society”.
He added: “Moving forward, in order to fulfil my role as a responsible member of society, I will focus solely on tennis competitions and achieving results. We will do everything possible to regain their trust.”
Nishikori, 35, withdrew from Wimbledon this week.
He has struggled with persistent injury throughout the season and was also forced to skip French Open last month.
Nishikori and Yamaguchi – also known by her nickname Ako Mizuki – married in 2020, which was five years after their relationship started.
Shukan Bunshun add the tennis star first met Oguchi in 2022 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
A year later, Oguchi was alleged to have been confronted by her then-boyfriend over the affair.
The unnamed partner also spoke to Nishikori after finding out about their relationship, it’s been claimed.
The outlet adds the former Wimbledon quarter-finalist hired a lawyer in order to mediate and avoid a public scandal.
Nishikori’s relationship with Oguchi came to an end shortly after but allegedly resumed last year when he told her he “no longer loves his wife” and that they are solely together for the sake of their children.
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