Rohan Bopanna's Historic Profession: From Coorg's Espresso Estates to World Tennis Arenas
Born and raised in Coorg, Karnataka, Bopanna's story is nothing wanting cinematic. He began by chopping wooden to construct energy for his serve and operating by means of espresso estates to enhance stamina, a routine that ultimately helped him develop one of the vital highly effective serves in world tennis.
His dedication carried him from cracked native courts to the grand phases of the ATP Tour, Grand Slams, and the Olympics, turning him into one in all India's most celebrated tennis figures.
Oldest Grand Slam Champion and World No. 1 in Males's Doubles
Bopanna made historical past earlier in 2024, changing into the oldest Grand Slam winner and the oldest World No. 1 in males's doubles on the age of 44, a rare milestone in fashionable tennis.
He captured two Grand Slam titles throughout his profession:
- 2024 Australian Open males's doubles (with Matthew Ebden)
- 2017 French Open blended doubles (with Gabriela Dabrowski)
Bopanna additionally reached 4 different Grand Slam finals, together with:
- 2020 US Open (males's doubles) with Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi
- 2023 US Open (males's doubles) with Matthew Ebden
- 2018 Australian Open (blended doubles) with Timea Babos
- 2023 Australian Open (blended doubles) with Sania Mirza
He was additionally a two-time ATP Finals runner-up (2012 with Mahesh Bhupathi and 2015 with Florin Mergea).
“Representing India Has Been the Best Honour of My Life”
In his emotional farewell notice titled “A Goodbye… However Not The Finish”, the 45-year-old expressed deep gratitude for his journey.
“How do you bid farewell to one thing that gave your life its that means? After 20 unforgettable years on tour, it's time… I'm formally hanging up my racquet,” Bopanna wrote.
“Representing India has been the best honour of my life, and each time I stepped on courtroom, I performed for that flag, that feeling, that satisfaction.”
His phrases replicate not simply the top of a profession however a lifelong love affair with the game that outlined him.
Legacy Past the Court docket: Bopanna's Mission to Construct Indian Tennis
Even after retiring from skilled play, Rohan Bopanna isn't stepping away from tennis. He has launched UTR Tennis Professional to India and continues to nurture future skills by means of the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy.
His academy focuses on providing younger Indian gamers entry to world-class teaching, aggressive platforms, and worldwide publicity, making certain the following era of gamers can dream greater than ever earlier than.
A Journey Etched in Emotion and Dedication
Bopanna's heartfelt submit superbly encapsulates his unbelievable rise from small-town beginnings to worldwide acclaim: “Tennis hasn't been only a recreation for me, it has given me function once I was misplaced, energy once I was damaged, and perception when the world doubted me.”
As he bids adieu to the skilled circuit, Rohan Bopanna leaves behind a legacy constructed on self-discipline, humility, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Inputs from TOI
