Rajeev Ram

We’re thrilled to welcome Rajeev Ram as one of our keynote speakers at this year’s Section Connection. A six-time Grand Slam champion, former World No. 1 in doubles, and two-time Olympic medalist, Rajeev has built one of the most accomplished careers in professional tennis.

Rajeev turned pro in 2004 after a standout collegiate career at the University of Illinois, where he earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors and helped lead the Fighting Illini to an undefeated NCAA Championship season. He went on to win multiple US Open and Australian Open titles, two ATP Finals championships, and represent Team USA at the Olympics and in Davis Cup competition.

In a special keynote conversation with Craig Tiley, attendees will hear firsthand about Rajeev’s journey from college champion to the top of the professional game, the experiences and relationships that shaped his career, and his perspective on what comes next.

Craig Tiley

We are honored to welcome Craig Tiley, Chief Executive Officer of the USTA, as one of our keynote speaker. He previously served as CEO of Tennis Australia (2013-2026) and Tournament Director of the Australian Open (2006-2026). Under his leadership, grassroots tennis in Australia grew to become the country's second most-played sport after soccer, with participation up more than 30 percent since 2021, and the Australian Open reached record attendance and revenue.

A native of Durban, South Africa, Tiley captained the South African Davis Cup team from 1998-2001. He also has deep roots in American tennis: as head coach of the University of Illinois men's team (1994-2005), he won the 2003 NCAA Division I national championship and was named Big Ten Coach of the Year eight times. He was inducted into the ITA Men's Collegiate Hall of Fame in 2010. Tiley is based in Orlando, Florida.

The Section Connection is day of inspiration, skill-building and community for everyone interested in or involved in tennis.