Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Rei Sakamoto stuns Kei Nishikori in US Open qualifying

8/29/2026

27 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Kei Nishikori lost to 20-year-old Rei Sakamoto 6-4, 7-6(3) in US Open qualifying.
Sakamoto, ranked 157th, served 19 aces to secure the win.
Nishikori entered qualifying on a USTA wildcard after missing main-draw entry.
He announced retirement at season’s end and will receive a farewell at the Japan Open.
Sakamoto will meet Aleksandar Vukic in the first round of the 2026 US Open main draw.

1 of 1

Story summary

Kei Nishikori lost to 20-year-old Rei Sakamoto 6-4, 7-6(3) in US Open qualifying.
Sakamoto, ranked 157th, served 19 aces to secure the win.
Nishikori entered qualifying on a USTA wildcard after missing main-draw entry.
He announced retirement at season’s end and will receive a farewell at the Japan Open.
Sakamoto will meet Aleksandar Vukic in the first round of the 2026 US Open main draw.