US Davis Cup team further mired in controversy over Rajeev Ram snub

| by Jamie Malachy

The US Davis Cup team has been further embroiled in heated controversy surrounding the decision to leave out doubles specialist, Rajeev Ram, for their quarter-final tie against Italy.

It caused much consternation that Ram was left out of the team. Ram is one of the best doubles players in the world, but was overlooked for selection by US team captain, Mardy Fish.

Tension builds in US Davis Cup team as surprising choice proves to be crucial in their loss
Tension builds in US Davis Cup team as surprising choice proves to be crucial in their loss

Their tie with Italy then went down to the doubles match - which they lost.

It is a decision made all the more bizarre by the fact that the US did not make use of the full number of players allowed - they selected four players, opting to leave Ram at home, when they were permitted to bring five.

Some have blamed the egos of the US team for the decision not to select Ram. Taylor Fritz, who has been a standout performer for the US team in the Davis Cup, took to social media to respond to these allegations.

"My guy don’t call us out for our “egos” like u know how the team was picked if ur gonna personally insult us and proceed to skate around it with no further explanation. Btw if Raj wanted to celebrate our team qualifying/winning at any point we would all be PUMPED to have him", wrote Fritz.

It has been an odd tournament for the US, who have courted controversy on several occasions this week. First, Frances Tiafoe was seen wearing headphone during the US national anthem, which some viewed as disrespectful. He then indicated that he'd be happy for the US to lose the tie, as it would mean they could go home and spend Thanksgiving with their families.

It's been a disappointing showing on the court, and one that the US team will want to draw a line under.

Tiafoe slammed for wearing headphones during US national anthem at Davis Cup
Tiafoe slammed for wearing headphones during US national anthem at Davis Cup

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