Vivek Ramaswamy recently took to social media to congratulate his friend and tennis star Rajeev Ram on winning the men’s doubles ATP title at the 2025 Cincinnati Open at the age of 41. Ram’s victory, achieved alongside partner Nikola Mektic, marked a defining milestone in his long and decorated career. The achievement is especially significant as it came in one of the ATP’s most prestigious Masters 1000 events, showcasing Ram’s ability to remain a world-class competitor well into his forties.For Ramaswamy, who once competed in the same junior tournaments as Ram during their Midwest days, the win was a proud reminder of how far his friend has come—from a rising local talent to a global tennis star with six Grand Slam titles and two Olympic silver medals. As an Indian-origin athlete representing Team USA, Ram continues to inspire fans with his longevity, work ethic, and passion for the sport.
Rajeev Ram’s triumph at the 2025 Cincinnati Open men’s doubles ATP title
At age 41, Rajeev Ram demonstrated remarkable endurance and skill by clinching the men’s doubles title at the prestigious 2025 Cincinnati Open, partnering with Nikola Mektić. The duo defeated Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti and Lorenzo Sonego in a thrilling final, 4–6, 6–3, [10–5], earning their first Masters 1000 title as a team. This victory not only underscored Ram’s ability to compete at the highest level beyond the traditional peak years of professional tennis, but also highlighted his adaptability in forming new winning partnerships. The Cincinnati Open triumph added to his legacy as one of the most accomplished doubles specialists of his era, and further cemented his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure.
Early life and background of Rajeev Ram
Born on March 18, 1984, in Denver, Colorado, Rajeev Ram is the son of Indian immigrants, Raghav and Sushma Ram. He grew up in Carmel, Indiana, where his tennis journey began at a young age. Ram quickly stood out as one of the top junior players in the Midwest, eventually winning national titles before stepping onto the international stage. He attended Carmel High School, where his talent shone through, and briefly studied at the University of Illinois before making the bold decision to turn professional in 2004. Throughout his journey, Ram has remained deeply connected to his Indian roots while proudly representing the United States in global competitions, serving as an inspiration to young athletes of immigrant backgrounds who aspire to achieve greatness in international sports.
Olympic medals and Grand Slam success
Rajeev Ram’s career has been decorated with some of the sport’s most prestigious honors. He has won two Olympic silver medals: the first in mixed doubles at the 2016 Rio Olympics alongside the legendary Venus Williams, and the second in men’s doubles at the 2024 Paris Olympics with Austin Krajicek.These achievements placed him in the rare category of tennis players with multiple Olympic medals. Beyond the Olympics, Ram has collected six Grand Slam doubles titles, including three consecutive Australian Open crowns and three US Open victories with British partner Joe Salisbury. His consistency on the biggest stages has made him a mainstay in the doubles world, and his record demonstrates a remarkable blend of technical skill, mental toughness, and competitive spirit.
Playing style, legacy, and impact
Standing 6’4” tall, Rajeev Ram is best known for his commanding serve-and-volley game, a style that is increasingly rare in modern tennis. His powerful serve, sharp reflexes, and aggressive net play make him a formidable doubles partner, while his one-handed backhand adds finesse to his arsenal. Over the years, Ram has built a reputation as a reliable and versatile doubles player capable of adapting to different partners and playing conditions.Beyond the court, he has contributed to the growth of tennis by supporting youth programs and mentoring aspiring players. His impact is not limited to titles and medals—Ram’s longevity, professionalism, and humility have made him a role model for athletes worldwide. As one of the most successful Indian-origin athletes in American tennis history, his story embodies perseverance, excellence, and pride in heritage.
