Rajeev Ram
Arguably the most accomplished tennis player of Indian descent -- and one of the least discussed in Indian sports media. Six Grand Slam titles. A former world No. 1 doubles ranking. Two Olympic silver medals. Parents from Bangalore and Delhi. Grew up in Carmel, Indiana. Ram mentored Basavareddy through the same local tennis community.
2026 Season Narrative
At 41, every tournament now carries legacy weight. How long can sustained excellence last? And what does that standard mean for the next generation watching? Ram's career is the proof point that Indian heritage and tennis excellence aren't contradictions -- they're complements.
Edition Appearances
The mentorship pipeline. Ram's influence on Basavareddy and the Carmel tennis community may prove more consequential than his trophy count.
New edition every week.
Weekly analysis of Indian professional tennis -- the players, the stories, and what it all means. Free, in your inbox.
Subscribe Free on SubstackFree weekly newsletter. Unsubscribe anytime.