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Source: Reuters -
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Rising Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori was confirmed on Monday as a wildcard entry into the main draw of the Heineken Open in Auckland next month.
Nishikori, 18, is ranked 63rd in the world and claimed his first ATP Tour crown in February at Delray Beach in Florida.
He came through qualifying and won eight successive matches, beating top seeded American James Blake in the final to become the first Japanese player to claim an ATP title in 16 years.
At the United States Open, he reached the fourth round, defeating world No 4 David Ferrer in five sets along the way.
Auckland tournament director Richard Palmer said Nishikori was seen as someone who could break into the top 20 by the end of next year.
Palmer also said Nishikori had an energy and enthusiasm that fans loved.
The tournament runs from January 12 to 17 and one main draw wildcard was previously awarded to New Zealand No 1 Rubin Statham.
