Three-time Brisbane International semifinalist Kei Nishikori put a slow start behind him to hold off free-swinging American youngster Jared Donaldson in his first match of 2017 on Wednesday.
The third seed prevailed 4-6 6-4 6-3 against the 105th-ranked qualifier, shaking off the rust to reach the quarterfinals in two hours and 23 minutes.
The Japanese star awaits the winner of this afternoon’s next match on Pat Rafter Arena, between Spanish eighth seed David Ferrer and Australian wildcard Jordan Thompson.