Aug. 22, 2008

FLUSHING MEADOWS, N.Y. - Former Illini Ryler DeHeart has advanced to the main draw of the 2008 US Open held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y. DeHeart prevailed 4-6, 7-5, 7-6 (3) over Diego Hartfield of Argentina in his final match of the US Open Qualifier this afternoon.

"This is the result of Ryler's hard work and determination into his game," Illinois head coach Brad Dancer said. "This is his first opportunity at the US Open Main Draw and I know that he will come out fired up and ready to go."

The Tampa, Fla., native will face No. 68 ranked Oliver Rochus of Belgium in the opening round.

DeHeart joins former Illini Amer Delic in the men's main draw. Delic, currently ranked No. 133 in the latest ATP rankings, will face No. 62 Robby Ginepri (USA), in the first round.

The 2008 US Open runs Aug. 25-Sept.7. For a complete look at the tournament brackets, results and schedule of play for the 2008 US Open, visit www.usopen.org for more tournament information.