Ramkumar Ramanathan’s Commanding Performance Secures Double Victory at ITF M25 in Mumbai

By Sujoy Roy –

In a tennis spectacle that showcased skill, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Ramkumar Ramanathan, the third-seeded player and a key member of the Indian Davis Cup team, achieved a rare double triumph at the ITF $25,000 Men’s Tennis Championship 2023 held at the Dr GA Ranade Tennis Centre in Mumbai. The tournament, organized by the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA), unfolded a tale of dominance as Ramkumar claimed victory not only in the men’s singles but also in the doubles category alongside partner Purva Raja.

The 29-year-old from Tamil Nadu commenced his journey with a resounding victory in the first round, defeating compatriot Madhwin Kamath with a scoreline of 6-4, 6-2. Ramkumar’s stellar form continued into the second round, where he bested another compatriot, Dev Javia, with a solid performance of 6-3, 6-4.

The quarterfinals proved to be a challenging encounter against Japan’s Ryuki Matsuda. In a closely contested match, Ramkumar emerged victorious with a scoreline of 7-6(6), 3-6, 7-5, displaying resilience and strategic acumen on the court. The semifinals witnessed a clash against Germany’s Louis Wessels, where Ramkumar’s skilful play secured a 7-6(3), 6-3 win, propelling him to the much-anticipated final.

In the final showdown, Ramkumar faced off against unseeded compatriot Siddharth Vishwakarma. The 29-year-old left-handed National Champion posed some challenges in the second set, but Ramkumar’s consistent serves and impeccable returns proved to be the difference. Starting with a whirlwind performance, Ramkumar secured crucial breaks in the first, third, and fifth games, ultimately serving out the first set with ease. Despite Vishwakarma’s occasional fine passing returns in the second set, Ramkumar obtained a vital break in the fifth game, sealing a well-deserved 6-0, 6-4 victory and clinching his second $25,000 title in a span of five weeks.