This year marks a remarkable milestone– Dr. James O. Maher III’s 35th year providing expert care at the Newport International Tennis Hall of Fame Open as part of the University Orthopedics sports medicine team.
A true cornerstone of Aquidneck Island, Dr. Maher has become synonymous with the tournament itself. His unwavering commitment to athlete care, the event, and the broader community has made him a trusted and familiar figure throughout the years. Thanks to his expertise and compassionate approach, generations of players have stayed healthy and at the top of their game.
Over the decades, Dr. Maher has forged deep connections with players, staff, and the Newport community. He’s had the rare opportunity to meet numerous legends of the sport during their visits for the Hall of Fame induction ceremony and has built lasting friendships with the many volunteers and visitors who return year after year.
“I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many of the Hall of Famers while they’re on site for the induction ceremony,” he shared.
“I look forward to ‘tennis week’ in Newport. I’ve made friends with many of the out-of-town visitors and volunteers who come year after year. It helps give Newport that ‘summer vibe’ that we all love.”
Dr. Maher also emphasized the unique camaraderie among the medical team and the mutual respect that has grown between caregivers and athletes over the years.
“I’ve enjoyed working with the staff and the physiotherapists. I believe the players have gotten exceptional care with our team over the years. We’ve treated many of the players and they are always grateful for the care they receive.”
For Dr. Maher, these three and a half decades represent more than just a professional achievement—they’ve been personally fulfilling, filled with meaningful relationships and memories that stand out in a long and successful career.
“Covering this event has certainly been a highlight of my career,” he said.
As the 2025 Hall of Fame Open unfolds, both the tournament and the Aquidneck Island community celebrate Dr. Maher—not just for his clinical excellence, but for the steady presence, warmth, and care he’s brought to Newport for 35 years and counting.
About Dr. Maher
James O Maher III, MD is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at the Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University. He is board certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. Dr Maher specializes in the treatment of student, recreational and professional athletes. His comprehensive approach to treatment includes medication, activity modification, physical therapy or surgery. Dr. Maher uses the arthroscope to do minimally invasive surgery of shoulders, knees and ankles.
Dr Maher works with professional tennis players as the chief tournament physician for the ATP World Tour at the Tennis Hall of Fame. He treats professional sailors as an orthopedic consultant for the Volvo Ocean Race. He is also the team physician for Salve Regina University and the Newport Gulls Collegiate Baseball Team.
Dr. Maher is a member of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons, the Arthroscopy Association of North America, the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association.