CARMEL, Ind. — Nishesh Basavareddy is headed back to the US Open, but this time, he earned his way there.
The 21-year-old Carmel High School graduate won three consecutive qualifying matches to secure his place in the 2026 US Open main draw, completing his run with a 6-3, 6-1 victory over France’s Arthur Géa.
It will be Basavareddy’s second straight appearance in the US Open main draw. Last year, he received a wild card to make his Grand Slam debut in New York. This time, he had to fight through qualifying to earn his spot.
A strong 2026 continues
The return to New York adds another chapter to an important year for the young American.
Basavareddy reached the second round of the Australian Open earlier this season, earning his first Grand Slam main-draw victory. He also picked up one of the biggest wins of his career at Roland Garros, defeating American Taylor Fritz in the opening round.
His progress has also been reflected in the ATP rankings, with Basavareddy reaching a career-high ranking of No. 99.
Now, he returns to the biggest American stage with another opportunity to make an impact.
A qualifier matchup in Round 1
Basavareddy will open his US Open campaign against another player who battled through qualifying, Australia’s Tristan Schoolkate.
The matchup brings an interesting connection between the two players. Both have already shared the Grand Slam spotlight against some of the biggest names in tennis.
At the 2025 Australian Open, Basavareddy took a set from Novak Djokovic, while Schoolkate took a set from Jannik Sinner.
Basavareddy and Schoolkate have also met previously, with the American winning their lone recorded meeting in 2025.
Their US Open first-round match is scheduled for Tuesday, September 1, at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.
For Carmel, it is another opportunity to watch one of its own take the court on one of tennis’ biggest stages.
From Carmel to the US Open, another chapter begins September 1.
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