Rohan Bopanna Announces Retirement At 43

Rohan Bopanna, whose distinguished career spanned more than two decades on the ATP Tour as an Indian tennis player and a two-time Grand Slam champion, has now officially bid farewell to professional tennis.

The Indian doubles player, currently age 43 and who professionally made a mark at the 2024 Australian Open competing just one week prior, posted an emotional farewell message on social media Saturday, signalling the end of his remarkable, illustrious career.

Rohan Bopanna’s Grand Slam titles

Throughout his career, Rohan Bopanna has been one of the most successful and consistent tennis players from India on the world scene.

2017 French Open Mixed Doubles: Bopanna and Gabriela Dabrowski won Bopanna his first Grand Slam title, and he became only the fourth Indian to win a Grand Slam.

2024 Australian Open (Men’s Doubles): Bopanna made history by winning the title alongside Matthew Ebden and further cementing his place as one of the best doubles players of his generation. Following his Australian Open title, Bopanna reached a career-high world ranking of No. 1 in doubles-a phenomenal feat at 43 years of age.

Emotional Farewell Message from Rohan Bopanna

Talking to X, Rohan Bopanna got emotional while reminiscing about an incredible tennis career and how he felt proud every time he represented India.

“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. From chopping wood in Coorg to strengthen my serve, to standing under the lights of the biggest arenas in the world it feels surreal,” Bopanna wrote.

“Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life. Every time I stepped on court, I played for that flag, that feeling, that pride. My gratitude is endless and my love for this beautiful game will never fade,” he added.

Bopanna is, however, underlining that though he may be retiring from competition, his journey in tennis is not over. He plans to mentor and inspire young players, especially from small-town India, to dream big and pursue the sport with belief and hard work.

Final Appearance and Legacy

The final professional appearance of Rohan Bopanna came at the Paris Masters 1000, teaming up with Alexander Bublik. A lengthier career can hardly be imagined, with titles in ATP doubles, appearances for India in the Davis Cup and Olympic Games, and winning the respect of his peers for consistency, longevity, and sportsmanship. The story of Bopanna, from humble beginnings in Coorg to global tennis glory, stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes.

A Legacy Beyond Tennis

Having spent more than 20 years on the ATP tour, Rohan Bopanna’s list of contributions is not only limited to bringing laurels for India but also to popularizing tennis in the country. For sure, his retirement signals the end of an era; however, his rich contribution on and off the court to Indian tennis will keep inspiring many more generations in times to come.

“This isn’t goodbye… it’s a thank you,” Bopanna signed off with deep gratitude to his fans, coaches, and partners during what was an extraordinary career.