Wimbledon 2015: Kei Nishikori struggles to five-set win over Simone Bolelli

Nishikori won 6-3 6-7 6-2 3-6 6-3

(Getty Images)

Kei Nishikori, the fifth seed, had to work hard to secure his second round passage being taken to five sets in the Court One sunshine by Simone Bolelli before winning 6-3, 6-7, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3.

The match was a repeat of a third round tie last year, again won by Nishikori in five sets.

“I am very happy, he is a tough player on grass,” said Nishikori. The Japanese has been troubled a by a foot injury and could have done without being on court for three hours and 22 minutes.

“The leg should be OK,” he said. “It is a little bit sore from last week but it is getting better. It was not easy to play three hours but it did not affect my movement and should be OK for the second round.”

Nishikori, a deft and dangerous player, regarded as a ‘magician’ by veteran coach and Independent columnist Nick Bolletieri, will now play Santiago Giraldo. The Colombian, ranked 60, beat Brazil’s Joao Souza in straight sets in an all-South American clash.

Bolelli, the world No. 55 became the first Italian win a grand slam title in the open era in Australia in January. However, that was doubles and the honour was shared with Fabio Fognini.

Singles is a different matter, though Bolelli showed plenty of sharp play himself especially in the second set tie-break in which hebriefly touched the heights.

However, Nishikori responded well, and did so again after being pegged back in the fourth. Ultimately his command of the court was too much for Bolleli.