Nishikori's Grand Slam Career Ends at US Open Qualifying

Kei Nishikori's storied Grand Slam career came to a poignant, full-circle conclusion on August 29, 2026, when the former world number four fell in the final round of US Open qualifying to his young compatriot, Rei Sakamoto. The 6-4, 7-6(3) defeat at Flushing Meadows marked the end of Nishikori's 19-year professional journey at the very tournament where he made history, and it closed the chapter on his appearances in major championships. The 36-year-old Japanese star, who received a wildcard into qualifying, was eliminated just one win short of a final main-draw appearance.