Rei Sakamoto secured a place in the main draw of the 2026 U.S. Open by defeating fellow Japanese player Kei Nishikori in the final round of qualifying on Friday. The 20-year-old Sakamoto won the match 6-4, 7-6 (7-3) at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York, denying Nishikori what would have been one last Grand Slam appearance.

Nishikori, widely regarded as Japan’s most successful men’s tennis player, had entered the qualifying tournament on a wild card after his ranking slipped due to injuries. Now 36, Nishikori has announced this season would be his final one on the professional tour. He won two qualifying matches before falling to Sakamoto, who delivered 19 aces, including the match-winning serve after Nishikori saved two match points.

Despite the loss, Nishikori expressed support for Sakamoto, calling him “the next Japanese top player.” “Not happy to lose today, but I’m happy for Rei,” Nishikori said after the match. Sakamoto, who idolized Nishikori growing up, recalled being inspired when Nishikori reached the 2014 U.S. Open final, the first Asian man to do so in a Grand Slam.

“I honestly grew up watching him play and he was my idol for my whole life,” Sakamoto said. “It’s also a pity to see his last season.” The younger player admitted that although he usually avoids checking his draw, he learned in advance that he could face Nishikori in the qualifier’s final round when his mother texted him encouragement.

In a gesture acknowledging Nishikori’s contributions to tennis, U.S. Open officials presented him with a framed portrait following the match. Sakamoto joined Nishikori in holding the portrait for a photo, symbolizing a passing of the torch between the two Japanese players.

With this victory, Sakamoto advances to the main draw of the U.S. Open, marking a significant milestone early in his career, while Nishikori’s farewell tour continues amid a legacy of breaking new ground for Asian men’s tennis.