Nishesh Basavareddy Gets US Open Wildcard

Photo: Instagram

India-West News Desk

NEW YORK, NY – Nishesh Basavareddy, a 20-year-old with Indian roots, will make his US Open main-draw debut this month after receiving a wildcard — the latest milestone in his fast-rising career.

Coached by Bryan Smith and his brother Nishanth, Basavareddy now heads to New York as one of the most intriguing young names in the draw. The US Open main draw will be announced on August 21, with qualifying rounds set for August 18–21.

Raised in Newport Beach, California, Basavareddy first grabbed attention on the junior circuit. He won the under-14 Orange Bowl, a title once held by Roger Federer and Andre Agassi, and helped lead the U.S. to victory at the World Junior Team Finals in the Czech Republic.

Since turning professional in late 2024, the former Stanford University standout has surged into the ATP top 100, peaking at No. 99 in June. He has already claimed two Challenger titles this season and earned notable wins over Francisco Comesana, Alejandro Tabilo, Alex Michelsen, and Aleksandar Vukic. At the Cincinnati Open, he beat Vukic before falling to Alexander Zverev.

The Djokovic Moment

His defining breakthrough came at the 2025 Australian Open. Given a wildcard, Basavareddy faced Novak Djokovic in the first round and shocked the tennis world by taking a set off the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Djokovic later praised the American’s poise and energy, calling him a player to watch.