Indian doubles specialist Rohan Bopanna has officially retired from professional tennis at the age of 45, marking the end of a remarkable two-decade journey that saw him conquer Grand Slams and reach the pinnacle of the world rankings.
Two-time Grand Slam Champion Rohan Bopanna Announces Retirement
In an emotional announcement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Bopanna reflected on his career, stating, “After 20 unforgettable years on tour however, it’s time…I’m officially hanging up my racquet.” He described his heart as “both heavy and grateful,” recounting his humble beginnings in the small town of Coorg, India, where he built his strength jogging through coffee estates and practicing on cracked courts. The post, accompanied by heartfelt images, emphasized that tennis gave him “purpose when I was lost, strength when I was broken and belief when the world doubted me.”
Bopanna’s career highlights include becoming the oldest player to win a men’s doubles Grand Slam title at the 2024 Australian Open with partner Matthew Ebden, at age 43. He also achieved the world No. 1 ranking in doubles that year, another record for the oldest to do so. Over 22 years, he secured two Grand Slam titles – the 2017 French Open mixed doubles with Gabriela Dabrowski and the aforementioned Australian Open – along with multiple ATP titles and Olympic representation. He retired from Davis Cup duty in 2023 after his final tie against Morocco.
The announcement paid tribute to his family, coaches, and fans. Bopanna thanked his parents as “heroes” for their sacrifices, his wife, Supriya, for enduring “long flights, sleepless nights,” and his daughter, Tridha, who inspired him to show that “dreams are worth fighting for.” He also acknowledged coach Scott Davidoff for 12 years of guidance and his fellow players for the “brotherhood.”
Reactions poured in swiftly. Fellow doubles player Neal Skupski congratulated him, while fans and media hailed him as an “Indian legend.” Bopanna’s retirement follows a first-round exit at the Paris Masters with Alexander Bublik.
Though stepping away from competition, Bopanna vowed to give back: “I want to help young dreamers from small towns believe that their beginnings don’t define their limits.” His legacy as a resilient champion who defied age barriers will inspire future generations of Indian tennis players.
Main Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran – USA TODAY Sports
