Ram and Ebden Survive 2 Match Points to Reach Australian Open Second Round
In a dramatic opening-round clash at the 2024 Australian Open, the powerhouse duo of Rajeev Ram (USA) and Matthew Ebden (AUS) staged a remarkable comeback to keep their title hopes alive. The American-Australian pair fended off two match points to defeat China’s Juncheng Shang and Zhizhen Zhang.
Key Match Stats: Ram/Ebden d. Shang/Zhang
| Set | Score | Highlights |
| Set 1 | 3-6 | Shang/Zhang break early to take the lead. |
| Set 2 | 7-6(6) | Ram/Ebden save two match points at 4-6 in the tiebreak. |
| Set 3 | 6-2 | Veterans dominate the decider to clinch the win |
The Turning Point
The match appeared to be slipping away when Ram and Ebden trailed 4-6 in the second-set tiebreak. Facing two match points, the seasoned veterans relied on their collective experience and clinical net play to reel off four consecutive points.
After snatching the second set, the momentum shifted entirely. Ram and Ebden broke the Chinese pair early in the third set, ultimately cruising to a 3-6, 7-6(6), 6-2 victory.
Looking Ahead: Round 2
The road doesn’t get any easier for the duo. In the second round, Ram and Ebden are set to face the formidable Dutch pairing of Tallon Griekspoor/Botic van de Zandschulp.
Fans can expect a high-quality encounter as the veteran specialists take on the dangerous singles stars in a battle for a spot in the Round of 16.
Photos from the match –
Photos – Muzammil Mamdani for ITD
