Full Breakdown
Passing of the Torch: Rei Sakamoto Qualifies for the US Open as Kei Nishikori’s Grand Slam Career Ends
8/29/2026, 9:07:35 PM
The Final Qualifying Match (August 28, 2026)
In the last round of the 2026 US Open men’s qualifying, 20-year-old Rei Sakamoto defeated 36-year-old Kei Nishikori 6-4, 7-6. The match, delayed to Friday because of rain, saw Sakamoto fire 19 aces and close out the second set after Nishikori saved two match points. With the win, Sakamoto earned a place in the main draw, while Nishikori’s attempt to return to a Grand Slam main draw ended in qualifying.
Background: Nishikori’s Legacy and 2026 Season
Kei Nishikori, Japan’s most accomplished men’s tennis player, reached the US Open final in 2014, becoming the first Asian man to contest a Grand Slam singles final. He later made the US Open semifinals in 2016 and 2018. Persistent injuries have limited his play in recent years; he announced that 2026 would be his final season and that he would retire after the Japan ATP 500 event scheduled for September 30 – October 6. Because his ranking no longer guarantees direct entry, the U.S. Tennis Association granted him a wildcard into qualifying.
Emerging Talent: Rei Sakamoto
Sakamoto, ranked 157th in the world, grew up watching Nishikori’s 2014 run. He describes Nishikori as his “idol for my whole life.” The victory over his hero marks a symbolic changing-of-the-guard for Japanese men’s tennis. Sakamoto’s next opponent in the main draw is Aleksandar Vukic.
Data & Statistics
- Match score: 6-4, 7-6 in Sakamoto’s favor.
- Aces: Sakamoto recorded 19.
- Rankings: Nishikori was outside the top 100; Sakamoto was world No. 157.
- Age: Nishikori 36; Sakamoto 20.
Official Statements & Responses
After the match, US Open officials presented Nishikori with a framed portrait of himself in action; Sakamoto helped hold it for a photo. Nishikori acknowledged the loss but expressed happiness for Sakamoto, calling him “the next Japanese top player.” Alexander Zverev, the tournament’s No.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Not happy to lose today, but I’m happy for Rei,” — Kei Nishikori, AP sports writer
- “I honestly grew up watching him play and he was my idol for my whole life,” — Rei Sakamoto
- “I think a lot of people, like most of the people still follow tennis because of him,” — Rei Sakamoto
- “Nothing. I was lucky. I mean, I was happy to get in even qualifying,” — Kei Nishikori, AP sports writer
- “I remember practicing with him, particularly in Miami, when he was like 16 or even 15. I see him grow. I thought he had a wonderful game, obviously a super respectful person as well. It’s sad seeing the likes of Nishikori and Wawrinka and others go,” — Roger Federer
What’s Next
Nishikori will conclude his professional career at his home ATP 500 event in Japan, scheduled for September 30 – October 6. He has indicated a desire to help develop Japanese and broader Asian tennis after retirement, though no concrete plan has been announced. Sakamoto, now in the US Open main draw, will look to build on his qualifying success and potentially become the next Japanese star on the Grand Slam stage.
