After a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Indian tennis icon Rohan Bopanna has announced his retirement from professional tennis. The 45-year-old, known for his powerful serve and exceptional doubles skills, made the announcement on Saturday, November 1, 2025, bringing an end to a journey that has inspired generations of Indian tennis players.
Bopanna, who turned professional in 2003, leaves the sport as a two-time Grand Slam champion, a former World No. 1 in doubles, an Asian Games gold medalist, and winner of 26 ATP Tour titles. His decision to retire came after his final appearance at the Paris Masters 1000, where he partnered with Alexander Bublik.
In an emotional farewell note, Bopanna expressed his gratitude for the sport that has defined his life. "How do you bid farewell to something that gave your life its meaning?" he wrote. "After 20 unforgettable years on tour, it's time… I'm officially hanging up my racquet". He also emphasized the honor he felt representing India throughout his career. "Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life, and every time I stepped on court, I played for that flag, that feeling, that pride," Bopanna stated.
Bopanna's career reached its zenith later in his career, defying conventional expectations in a sport often dominated by younger athletes. In January 2024, he and Matthew Ebden won the Australian Open men's doubles title, making Bopanna, at 43 years old, the oldest man in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam. That same week, he became the oldest first-time World No. 1 in doubles. This victory was particularly sweet, as it followed a US Open final loss the previous year.
Bopanna's other notable achievements include winning the 2017 French Open mixed doubles title with Gabriela Dabrowski. He also reached the finals of the ATP World Tour Finals in 2012 and 2015. In addition to his Grand Slam success, Bopanna secured multiple ATP doubles titles, including victories at the 2010 Paris Masters and the 2017 Dubai Tennis Championships. Bopanna also won a gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games partnering with Divij Sharan. He represented India in the Olympics on three occasions, in 2008, 2016, and 2024.
Throughout his career, Bopanna was a keymember of India's Davis Cup team, playing a crucial role in their success over the years. His commitment to the sport and his country earned him the Arjuna Award in 2019 and the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, in 2024.
Vijay Amritraj, an International Tennis Hall of Fame inductee, praised Bopanna's "fantastic career," highlighting his commitment, discipline, powerful serve, and ability to play with numerous partners. Amritraj expressed hope that Bopanna would remain involved in the sport, encouraging and training future champions.
Bopanna's impact extends beyond his on-court achievements. Known for his leadership, sportsmanship, and philanthropic efforts, he has been instrumental in popularizing tennis in India and inspiring the next generation of players. Even in retirement, Bopanna plans to give back to the sport by helping young dreamers believe in themselves. His legacy will be one of perseverance, longevity, and excellence, solidifying his place as one of India's greatest tennis players.
