Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna has announced his retirement from professional tennis after a remarkable 22-year career. The announcement, made on Saturday, marks the end of an era for Indian tennis, as Bopanna concludes his journey at the Paris Masters.
Bopanna, born on March 4, 1980, has had an illustrious career, achieving numerous milestones and inspiring a generation of tennis players in India. His journey saw him reach the pinnacle of the sport, attaining the World No. 1 ranking in men's doubles on January 29, 2024. He accomplished this feat after winning his first major men's doubles title at the Australian Open in 2024 with his partner Matthew Ebden. At 43, he became the oldest first-time No. 1, a testament to his enduring passion and dedication to the sport.
Throughout his career, Bopanna secured 26 doubles titles on the ATP Tour, including six at the Masters 1000 level. Notably, he won the 2024 Miami Open, making him the oldest Masters winner. His Grand Slam triumphs include the 2017 French Open mixed doubles title with Gabriela Dabrowski and the 2024 Australian Open men's doubles title with Matthew Ebden. Bopanna's mixed doubles victory made him only the fourth Indian player to win a Grand Slam title. He was also a finalist at the ATP World Tour Finals in 2012 and 2015.
Bopanna's partnership with Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi of Pakistan, known as the "IndoPak Express," was particularly memorable. Together, they reached the final of the US Open in 2010. Bopanna also represented India in the Davis Cup team from 2002 to 2023 and competed in the 2012, 2016, and 2024 Olympic Games. At the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang, he won a gold medal in men's doubles with Divij Sharan.
In addition to his on-court success, Bopanna has been recognized for his contributions to tennis and humanitarian efforts. He received the Arjuna Award in 2019 and the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, in 2024. He was also nominated for the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian of the Year award in 2010.
Bopanna's influence extends beyond his playing career. He founded the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy, aiming to promote tennis in India and inspire young players. He expressed his commitment to shaping tennis in India even after his retirement. Bopanna's career is defined by his perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to the sport. His achievements have solidified his place as one of India's most successful tennis players, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes.
Bopanna said that tennis gave him a purpose when he was lost and expressed immense pride in representing India. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy, marked by his Grand Slam victories, ATP titles, and his role in popularizing tennis in India.
