Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna has officially announced his retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of a remarkable 20-year career. The 45-year-old doubles star made his final appearance at the Paris Masters 1000, partnering with Alexander Bublik, in a fitting farewell to a venue that has been pivotal in his journey. Bopanna’s retirement comes after a year of historic achievements, including becoming the oldest man in tennis history to win a Grand Slam title and the oldest World No. 1 doubles player.
In a heartfelt statement, Bopanna reflected on his career, saying, ‘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. Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life, and every time I stepped on court, I played for that flag, that feeling, that pride.’
Bopanna’s legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and excellence. He has represented India with distinction, finishing fourth at the Rio 2016 Olympics alongside Sania Mirza and being a cornerstone of the Davis Cup team for over two decades. Beyond his competitive achievements, Bopanna has been instrumental in promoting tennis in India. He recently brought UTR Tennis Pro to the country and is actively involved in grassroots and development initiatives through his academy, nurturing the next generation of Indian tennis talent.
As he transitions away from professional competition, Bopanna will remain connected to the sport. He is set to participate in the Tennis Premier League (TPL) Season 7, scheduled from December 9 to 14 at the Gujarat University Tennis Stadium in Ahmedabad. His retirement marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter in his lifelong dedication to tennis.