After losing to Tiafoe, Nishikori took a victory lap of Tokyo’s main showcourt – the place where he won the title in 2012 and 2014.
A video featuring Djokovic, three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray and 1989 Roland Garros winner Michael Chang congratulating Nishikori was also released.
“Your resilience and fighting spirit, which always comes back after a lot of adversity, is truly commendable and admirable,” Djokovic said.
“We have had great battles all over the world. I am really happy that you are finishing your career in your city, your country, in front of your people.
“You’re going to get the farewell you absolutely deserve.”
Nishikori started playing at the age of five and moved to Florida at the age of 14 to train.
He won 12 ATP Tour singles titles during his career and had 40 victories against top 10 players.
He was the first Japanese to reach the top 10 in the world rankings and has inspired many players, including four-time major champion Naomi Osaka.
His win rate of 72.5% in deciding sets is the third best in ATP Tour history, behind only Bjorn Borg (73.4%) and John McEnroe (72.8%).
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