With the 2024 US Open now underway, the competitive spirit of tennis is palpable. But the court isn’t the only place where this drive for excellence can be found. Marko Cerenko and Josh Rubens, Partners at Kluger Kaplan, have channeled their passion for tennis into their careers in law, demonstrating how skills from the sport translate seamlessly into the courtroom. 

Both are lifelong tennis enthusiasts whose love for the game has helped shaped their approach to litigation. 

Marko Cerenko: The Relentless Competitor 

Cerenko’s journey to becoming a top litigator is as dynamic as his tennis career. After immigrating to the United States as a teenager, Cerenko quickly rose to prominence as one of the nation’s top 10 tennis players. His talent on the court earned him a spot on the ATP tour and the role of captain of Duke’s Tennis team. However, a significant injury led him to pivot towards law. Undeterred by the setback, Cerenko pursued a legal education and was named partner at Kluger Kaplan in under five years. Impressively, he achieved this while learning five languages: Croatian, Bosnian, Serbian, German, and English. 

For Cerenko, “What I love about litigation is the win-lose mentality. Two parties walk into a courtroom, and only one comes out on top, just like a tennis match,” he explains. 

Josh Rubens: The Balanced Strategist 

Rubens, who specializes in commercial, real estate, and trust litigation, has also been deeply influenced by tennis. His journey began at age 12, when he first picked up a racket. His dedication to the sport earned him a scholarship to Penn State University, and later, he was a member of Emory University’s tennis team. Even now, Rubens continues to play tennis weekly, making it a cornerstone of his routine to maintain a healthy balance between his professional and personal life. 

For Rubens, tennis is more than just a game; it’s a discipline that teaches strategy, patience, and mental fortitude—all of which are invaluable in the courtroom. According to Rubens, his experiences on the court have taught him the importance of preparation and adaptability, skills that are essential in handling complex legal cases. 

A Match: Tennis and Law  

Whether it’s the mental toughness required to win a high-stakes match or the strategic thinking needed to outmaneuver an opponent, Cerenko and Rubens have translated their athletic prowess into courtroom success.