LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky men's tennis team announced Thursday the addition of Rihards Neimanis to its roster, with the Latvian prospect set to join the Wildcats in January under head coach Cedric Kauffmann.

Neimanis, currently ranked 65th in the International Tennis Federation's junior singles rankings and 34th in ITF doubles, brings high-level competitive experience after a productive summer competing in ATP Challenger Tour events across Spain and Tunisia, where he advanced to three rounds of 16.

The 19-year-old also has represented Latvia in Davis Cup competition since 2024, including a singles victory in Latvia's 3-0 win over Azerbaijan in June.

"We're excited for Rihards to come to Kentucky," Kauffmann said. "He is one of the best players in the world in his age group, a hard worker and packs a strong punch for someone his size. He is friends with some of the guys on our team and that will help him quickly get settled into Lexington and make an immediate impact for the Wildcats."

The signing adds depth to Kentucky's men's tennis program as the team continues building its roster for the upcoming season. Neimanis becomes part of a recruiting class that aims to strengthen the Wildcats' competitive position in the Southeastern Conference.