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Two-time Grand Slam champion and Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna has officially called time on his illustrious career, marking the end of an era in Indian tennis. The 45-year-old, who spent two decades at the highest level, leaves behind a legacy built on resilience, longevity, and a booming serve that inspired generations of players.
A decorated career spanning over two decades
Announcing his retirement on Instagram, Bopanna wrote, “After 20 unforgettable years on tour however, it’s time… I’m officially hanging up my racquet.”
The Kodava-born star became one of India’s greatest doubles players, achieving the World No. 1 ranking in 2024 after winning the Australian Open men’s doubles title with Matthew Ebden. That triumph made him the oldest first-time world number one and the oldest Grand Slam men’s doubles champion — a testament to his extraordinary fitness and determination.
His achievements also include 26 ATP Tour titles, six of which were Masters 1000 victories. Rohan Bopanna captured his first Grand Slam in 2017, partnering with Gabriela Dabrowski to win the French Open mixed doubles crown. Despite battling chronic knee injuries later in his career, Bopanna remained a fierce competitor, continuing to deliver at the highest level.
An emotional message from Mahesh Bhupathi
Among those to honor Bopanna’s retirement was Mahesh Bhupathi, his former doubles partner and one of Indian tennis’ greatest icons. Bhupathi took to Instagram to share an emotional message celebrating Rohan Bopanna’s journey, posting old pictures of the two together and writing:
"Very proud of you @rohanbopanna0403... from seeing you serve for the first time at the village to travelling the world on tour and watching you win slams.. it’s been wild (literally)... Welcome to the other side, it’s not as bad as some make it out to be... Ps.. My yearly trips to Wimby aren’t going to be the same now."
The heartfelt post captured the deep bond between the two players who helped shape India’s modern tennis landscape, following in the footsteps of Leander Paes and Bhupathi’s own era of dominance.
A legacy that shaped Indian tennis
Bopanna’s influence extends beyond the court. His ‘Doubles Dream of India’ initiative, launched in 2013, has been instrumental in nurturing young Indian talent. Players like Yuki Bhambri, N. Sriram Balaji, and Divij Sharan have benefitted from his efforts to promote and support doubles tennis across the nation.
Tennis veterans like Vijay Amritraj and Sunder Iyer praised Rohan Bopanna for his contribution to Indian sport. Amritraj hailed his discipline, professionalism, and leadership, adding that his “commitment to the sport and ability to play alongside an incredible number of partners is a remarkable achievement.”
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