Former Tar Heel All-America Rinky Hijikata has received a wildcard entry to the main draw of the 2023 US Open and will compete at the final Grand Slam of the season later this month.
Hijikata, who starred for Carolina in 2020 and 2021 before turning professional, and fellow Australian Storm Hunter have been awarded US Open main-draw singles wildcards. Hijikata will be making his second main-draw appearance at the US Open.
The 22-year-old’s season highlights in singles include reaching his first ATP 250 semifinal at ‘s-Hertogenbosch, a second-round appearance at the ATP 1000 tournament in Indian Wells and claiming his second ATP Challenger title in Burnie.
Hijikata also became a Grand Slam doubles champion alongside Jason Kubler at the Australian Open in January.
“It’s been a year of firsts for me. It has been a bit of a rollercoaster obviously starting at Aussie Open. Even throughout the year getting to play some of the tour events for the first time has been really inspiring and a lot of fun,” says Hijikata, who reached a career-high singles ranking of 110 last month.
“I’m really proud of the way I’ve worked over the last 12 months and the last few years. Ever since I went over to the US to go to college, I’ve really tried to put my head down and really work hard and improve as much as I can. It’s nice seeing it pay off. I still want to keep going up and hopefully this is just the beginning and there is a lot more to come.”
Hijikata recalls playing Rafael Nadal in the first round of the US Open last year as a career highlight.
“Playing Rafa was obviously a huge moment for me and a great experience last year, it’s probably been my favorite match of my career so far,” Hijikata says.
“The atmosphere on Arthur Ashe Stadium was incredible. I really looking forward to just going back, soaking up the atmosphere again, it’s a great tournament to be a part of.”
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