Israeli doubles stars Jonathan Erlich and Andy Ram have dismissed speculation of an impending split after their exit from Wimbledon this week.
Erlich, 31, was said to be considering taking time out from tennis after the Olympics when his first child is due to be born. Some reports have suggested increasing tensions with Ram, 28, implying that he will team up with another Israeli, Harel Levy, for the US Open in August.
Ram and Erlich have been partners since 2001, each winning more than $1.5 million in prize money. Earlier this year, they won the Australian Open, their first-ever grand slam success.
Responding to the rumours, Ram said: “It’s all nonsense, Yoni and I have agreed to play in both the Olympics and US Open.”
Erlich added: “At the moment I plan to fly to the Olympics and the US Open. The baby is due in early August. We knew from the first month that it would be during the Olympics. My wife understands and is very supportive.
“Going to the Olympics is something you dream about and you need to say thank you to God to be there.”
After three five-set matches, the number three seeds fell in the quarter-finals to Lukas Dlouhy and Leander Paes in straight sets 6-3 6-3 6-3.
“Of course it’s disappointing,” said Erlich “We had our chances. They played very well and very aggressive. I don’t feel tired and could play another three sets. We put our heart and soul into it but in the end we didn’t step up enough.”