Men’s Doubles Final: Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram Reach US Open 2023 Championship Round
Salisbury and Ram Reach Third Consecutive US Open Men’s Doubles Final
Tennis
Defending champions Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram have continued their incredible run at the US Open by reaching their third successive men’s doubles final. The dynamic duo defeated second seeds Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek in a thrilling encounter.
In what seems like an unstoppable streak of success in New York, Salisbury from Britain and Ram from America secured their 17th consecutive victory at the tournament. After winning the championship titles in both 2021 and 2022, they are now aiming for a three-peat this year.
The match was a rollercoaster ride with the third seeds eventually emerging victorious with a scoreline of 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 against Croatia’s Dodig and American Krajicek.
In Friday’s final showdown, Salisbury and Ram will face formidable opponents – India’s Rohan Bopanna, who reached the final back in 2010, teamed up with Australia’s Matthew Ebden.
“It has been a tough year for us, but to reach this stage of the tournament and defeat one of the best teams of the year is truly remarkable,” expressed an emotional Ram during his on-court interview. “We stuck together and put up a great performance. I am extremely proud.”
Playing in his 23rd US Open, Ram drew inspiration from a mid-match meal of sushi as he battled through scorching temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius.
“Earlier it was so hot that I couldn’t eat as much as I wanted before the match,” shared Ram. “I felt depleted, but luckily my friend got me some sushi which really helped boost my energy.”
The Decider Set
In their quest for a fourth major title at Flushing Meadows, Salisbury and Ram faced some challenges along the way. They made their move in the first set by breaking Dodig’s serve at 5-5 and eventually taking it.
However, they found themselves unable to convert their break point opportunity in the second set, allowing Dodig and Krajicek to level the match by winning it.
Determined not to let victory slip away from them, Salisbury and Ram stormed into a commanding 3-0 lead in the final set with an impressive display of skill. The key break came when Ram unleashed a powerful forehand down the line, securing an advantage that ultimately led them to clinch victory with an unreturnable serve on match point.
An Impressive Record
Salisbury and Ram made history last year by becoming the first pair in the 21st century to retain the men’s doubles title at the US Open. They now have their sights set on creating another record – becoming the first team in the Open era to win three consecutive US Open men’s doubles titles.
“It’s pretty amazing. We didn’t think we would be here. It hasn’t been our best year, but there is something about this place that brings out the best in us,” Salisbury said.
The Final Opponents
In a thrilling semifinal clash, India’s Rohan Bopanna and Australia’s Matthew Ebden defeated French duo Pierre-Hugues Herbert and Nicolas Mahut with a score of 7-6 (7-3), 6-2. Now, they will face off against Salisbury and Ram for the coveted US Open men’s doubles title.