The US Open men’s wheelchair quarter-finals saw South Africa’s Donald Ramphadi team up with Brazil’s Leandro Pena for the first time, but their debut pairing ran into a brick wall.
Facing the Netherlands’ Sam Schroder and Turkey’s Ahmet Kaplan on Court 15, the duo fell 6-3, 6-2 in just over an hour.
It was clear from the start that Ramphadi and Pena were still finding their rhythm.
Moments of miscommunication and timing issues highlighted their inexperience as a team, especially in the first set.
Learning Curve for a New Partnership
Post-match, Ramphadi described the loss as “tough” but took a reflective and positive approach.
“We didn’t have a lot of experience playing together at a Grand Slam,” he admitted.
He emphasized that one of his strongest skills in doubles is helping his partner feel at ease on the court.
“I always aim to make them feel free and able to play at their best.
Pena loosened up as the match progressed, and if we can play at that level more consistently, then we will do well,” Ramphadi said.
Despite the defeat, he was proud of their effort.
“From my side, I felt that we tried our best. Schroder and Kaplan are good players, and we tried our best,” he added.
Still Searching for a Permanent Doubles Partner
Ramphadi opened up about his ongoing search for a more permanent doubles partner.
“I’m the only person who doesn’t have a concrete doubles partner, which I am still looking for. I will find one,” he said.
In singles, Ramphadi was preparing to face Great Britain’s Andy Lapthorne, a legendary figure in wheelchair tennis.
“He’s been a legend for the longest time. It’s always fun to play him.
The last time I played him was two years ago at the US Open, which I lost,” Ramphadi reflected.
Confident in his growth, he believes he can put up a stronger fight this time.
“I’ve grown. I think I’m more mature. The game I now play is different from two years ago. We’ll see what he brings tomorrow.
I’m pretty sure I’m going to give him a game,” he said.
A Passion for Liverpool on and Off the Court
Outside tennis, Ramphadi shared his love for Premier League side Liverpool, just like fellow South African Dave Marshall.
“It’s going to be an interesting season with the new signings. I am happy with how they are playing now.
I’ve been watching the new signing Isak from Newcastle. He’s been doing very well. Now at Liverpool, he’s going to do even better.
He has good suppliers who will give him the ball,” he predicted.
When asked about his favorite current player, he didn’t hesitate.
“I’ve always had a love for Mo Salah as he’s African,” Ramphadi said with a smile.
Mourning a Personal Loss
Ramphadi also shared some sad news from home. His uncle, Elliot Matome Ramphadi, passed away recently in South Africa.
“If I lose my singles match, I will be on the first plane back to South Africa as I want to pay my last respects to my mother’s brother,” he said.
Our condolences go out to Ramphadi and his family during this difficult time.
Following the US Open
Ramphadi’s journey in Flushing Meadows continues, with eyes now set on his singles match.
Fans of wheelchair tennis are keeping a close watch on the South African’s progress, both on the court and in his personal journey.
Dave Marshall is reporting exclusively from the US Open in Flushing Meadows for The South African.