Indian veteran pairing of Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna sustained a gut-wrenching defeat against Luisa Stefani and Rafael Matos of Brazil in the 2023 Australian Open Mixed Double final on January 27 (Friday). The Indians were defeated in straight sets 7-6 (7-2), 6-2. As a result, Sania will end her career with six Grand Slam titles after failing to win the Australian Open mixed doubles title at Rod Laver Arena. Coming into her final Major tournament, Sania had three women's doubles and as many mixed doubles trophies in her cabinet. The 42-year-old Bopanna has one French Open mixed doubles title to his credit.
After the Mixed Doubles final came to an end, a fan put out a Tweet and asked, "BOPANNA’S??? WIFE??? Is the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen???"
The Indian tennis star came up with a priceless answer and replied to the Tweet, "I agree" with two emojis.
After losing the final, Rohan, who has watched the Sania's evolution from the very beginning, voiced his gratitude towards the 36-year-old legend.
"It’s truly special for me to play with Sania. Our first mixed doubles together was when she was 14 years old, and we happened to win the title. Today, we get to play the last Grand Slam match in Rod Laver Arena. Unfortunately, we couldn’t win the title, but thank you for all you’ve done for Indian tennis," Bopanna said.
"Not only Indian tennis, but inspiring each and every one across the world for playing tennis at the highest level for so many, so many years. It really shows the dedication and hard work you’ve put in, through and through. Congratulations for a fantastic career," he added.
