Rohan Bopanna retires from professional tennis

Veteran Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna announced his retirement from professional tennis today, having played at the top level for more than two decades. The 45-year-old took to Instagram on Saturday to announce his decision, in a long emotional post. 

 

Bopanna's final appearance on the Tour came at the Paris Masters, where he partnered Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik, losing in the opening round earlier this week. He had announced his retirement from Davis Cup in 2023, playing his last tie against Morocco in Lucknow.

 

This decision comes a year after Bopanna became the oldest Grand Slam champion and the oldest no.1 ranked doubles player. A late bloomer, Bopanna's major titles came after the age of 35.

 

Bopanna represented India in four editions of the Olympics, missing a medal for India in 2016, by the barest of margins. The veteran eventually finished fourth in what was his career-best act. 

 

“How do you bid farewell to something that gave your life its meaning? After 20 unforgettable years on tour, it's time I'm officially hanging up my racquet," read the note from Bopanna on Instagram. “From chopping wood in Coorg to strengthen my serve, to standing under the lights of the biggest arenas in the world - it feels surreal. Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life."

 

Bopanna made his mark in doubles - both men's and mixed doubles. 

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