The split will surprise many in the tennis world.
British doubles No. 1 player Joe Salisbury has split with long-time partner Rajeev Ram after the pair won four Grand Slam titles together.
Salisbury and Ram have forged one of the most successful partnerships in the game since linking up six years ago, becoming number ones after their first Major victory at the 2020 Australian Open.
They then became the first duo in the Open era to win three successive US Open men’s doubles titles between 2021 and 2023.
They claimed an ATP 250 title in Adelaide this year alongside reaching the final of the Montreal Masters.
Neither player has commented on why they decided to split, but they failed to go beyond the quarter-finals in any of the Grand Slams in 2024 and currently sit 11th in the world rankings.
The tennis world was taken by surprise when British doubles No. 1 Joe Salisbury and his long-time partner Rajeev Ram announced they were parting ways after a highly successful partnership that spanned six years. The duo, known for their strong chemistry and consistent performances, has made their mark as one of the most dominant doubles teams in recent tennis history. Their decision to split comes after they jointly achieved four Grand Slam titles, including a historic three consecutive US Open titles between 2021 and 2023.
When Salisbury, 32, and Ram, 40, joined forces in 2018, few could have predicted the level of success they would attain together. They quickly established themselves as a formidable pair on the ATP tour, their complementary styles blending seamlessly on the court. Ram, an experienced doubles specialist with a calm and steady approach, balanced Salisbury’s energy and precision, creating a dynamic partnership that thrived under pressure.
Their breakthrough moment came in 2020 when they captured their first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. This victory not only marked their ascent to the top of the doubles game but also catapulted them to the No. 1 ranking in the world. The pair continued to dominate the field, consistently making deep runs in tournaments and securing a total of 11 ATP titles during their time together.
Perhaps their most remarkable achievement came at the US Open, where Salisbury and Ram made history by becoming the first duo in the Open era to win three consecutive men’s doubles titles. Their triumphs in 2021, 2022, and 2023 cemented their place among the great doubles teams in tennis history. Their success at Flushing Meadows was a testament to their ability to deliver under the most intense circumstances, with their communication and trust on full display during crucial moments.
In an era where doubles partnerships often change frequently due to the physical and mental demands of the sport, Salisbury and Ram’s longevity was a rarity. Fans and analysts alike marveled at how they continued to evolve and improve their game, despite the relentless competition on the ATP Tour.
However, like all great partnerships, the duo faced their share of challenges. The 2024 season proved to be a difficult one for Salisbury and Ram, as they failed to reach the same heights that had defined their previous campaigns. Despite starting the year with a promising victory at the ATP 250 event in Adelaide and reaching the final of the prestigious Montreal Masters, their performances in the Grand Slams fell short of expectations.
They were unable to progress beyond the quarter-final stage in any of the majors, a stark contrast to their dominance in previous years. The pair also dropped to 11th in the world rankings, a significant decline for a team that had been consistently at or near the top of the rankings for the past few seasons. While they were still competitive, the dip in form raised questions about the future of their partnership.
The announcement of their split has left many in the tennis community speculating about the reasons behind the decision. Neither Salisbury nor Ram has publicly commented on the split, leaving fans and analysts to wonder what may have led to the end of such a successful collaboration. Was it a mutual decision driven by the desire to explore new challenges? Or were there underlying tensions that remained hidden from the public eye?
In professional tennis, doubles partnerships are complex and often involve a delicate balance of personal and professional dynamics. A lack of results, changing goals, or the desire for a new direction can all contribute to such decisions. While the exact reasons for their split remain unknown, it’s clear that both players will be looking to the future as they embark on new chapters in their respective careers.
Regardless of the reasons behind their separation, Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram will be remembered as one of the most successful doubles teams of their era. Their legacy is defined not only by their four Grand Slam titles but also by their ability to consistently compete at the highest level over the course of six years.
Their record-breaking US Open victories will stand as a testament to their dominance, while their teamwork and mutual respect set a standard for what a successful doubles partnership should look like. Their ability to complement each other’s strengths and navigate the challenges of professional tennis with grace and determination will remain an inspiration to many aspiring doubles players.
As the tennis world speculates about the next steps for Salisbury and Ram, both players will likely have no shortage of opportunities. Salisbury, still in his prime at 32, will be eager to prove that he can achieve success with a new partner. His versatility on the court and strong track record make him an attractive option for any top doubles player looking to form a winning partnership.
Rajeev Ram, at 40, may be nearing the twilight of his career, but his experience and skill remain valuable assets. Whether he chooses to continue competing or transitions into coaching or another role within the sport, Ram’s contributions to tennis will be long remembered.
In the ever-evolving world of professional tennis, partnerships come and go, but the impact of Salisbury and Ram’s time together will be felt for years to come. As they both move forward in their careers, they leave behind a legacy of success, camaraderie, and professionalism that will be hard to match.