In the vibrant football landscape of Malaysia, few names shine as brightly as V. Ruventhiran. Born on August 24, 2001, in Klang, Selangor, Ruventhiran’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a professional footballer for Selangor and the Malaysia national team is nothing short of inspiring. His journey is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and unrelenting passion for the beautiful game.
Early Beginnings of V. Ruventhiran: A Dream Takes Root
Ruventhiran’s love for football began at the tender age of five when he joined a small academy in Klang. Guided by ambition and raw talent, he progressed through several youth programs, including CIMB-MBSA, CIMB-YFA, and even represented CIMB at the prestigious Bayern Munich Alliance League.
His early journey was marked by determination. After stints with MISC-MIFA and Belia Selangor, V. Ruventhiran joined Petaling Jaya City FC’s under-19 squad. There, he honed his skills, showcasing his versatility as a left-back and winger, eventually earning a spot in the under-21 team.
Stepping into Professional Football
At the close of 2020, V. Ruventhiran took a significant leap, signing his first professional contract with Petaling Jaya City FC. Donning the number 19 jersey, he debuted in the Malaysia Super League on March 7, 2021, against Perak. Just a month later, he scored his maiden professional goal in a 1-1 draw against Penang.
In two years with Petaling Jaya City, V. Ruventhiran made 41 appearances, scoring twice and assisting three times—a stellar performance that established him as one of the league’s promising talents.
A Return to Roots: Joining Selangor
In December 2022, following Petaling Jaya City’s exit from professional football, Ruventhiran rejoined Selangor. Playing for a club with a storied history and passionate fanbase required not only talent but mental toughness—qualities that Ruventhiran embraced wholeheartedly.
Challenges and Comebacks
2023 proved to be a season of growth and resilience for V. Ruventhiran. A fifth metatarsal fracture sidelined him for three weeks, testing his mental and physical endurance. “It was the most unforgettable season for me,” Ruventhiran shared. “The injury taught me invaluable lessons about being a professional athlete, coping with setbacks, and staying mentally strong.”
During his recovery, Ruventhiran turned to yoga to maintain focus and flexibility, a testament to his commitment to personal growth. He credits his coaches and teammates for their unwavering support during this challenging period.
Shining on the International Stage
Ruventhiran’s talents caught the attention of national selectors, earning him his first call-up to the Malaysia senior team in May 2022. He debuted against Brunei, contributing to a 4-0 victory. His international journey included appearances in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers and two AFF tournaments in the same year—an exceptional feat.
Most recently, V. Ruventhiran represented Malaysia’s Under-23 squad in friendly matches against China, further solidifying his role as a key player for upcoming tournaments like the AFC Under-23 Asian Cup.
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