Kei Nishikori ends Grand Slam career at US Open qualifying

Kei Nishikori, the former world number four, concluded his Grand Slam career at the US Open after losing in the final round of qualifying. The 36-year-old Japanese player was defeated by fellow countryman Rei Sakamoto with a score of 6-4, 7-6 (3).

Nishikori, who announced his retirement from professional tennis at the end of the 2026 season, had entered the qualifying tournament via a wild card. His run included victories over Sebastian Ofner and 16-year-old American Michael Antonius. The loss marks the end of his final attempt to reach a Grand Slam main draw.

Sakamoto, a 20-year-old rising star who cited Nishikori as his lifelong idol, secured his place in the main draw through the victory. Following the match, Nishikori received on-court honors and expressed pride in Sakamoto, describing him as the next great Japanese player.