Rei Sakamoto defeats Kei Nishikori to claim U.S. Open spot

In New York, Rei Sakamoto defeated Kei Nishikori 6-4, 7-6 (3) in the final round of U.S. Open qualifying. This victory secured Sakamoto a spot in the main draw, while Nishikori, who is retiring after this season, hoped to earn one last Grand Slam appearance. Sakamoto, who idolized Nishikori, acknowledged the significance of the match and the impact Nishikori has had on Japanese tennis.