India’s two-time Grand Slam winner Rohan Bopanna announced his retirement from professional tennis on Saturday, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 20-year career that defined an era of Indian tennis.
The 45-year-old’s decision came shortly after his final appearance at the Paris Masters 1000, where he and partner Alexander Bublik bowed out in the Round of 32, losing 5-7, 6-2, 10-8 to John Peers and James Tracy.
“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,” Bopanna wrote in an emotional post on social media.
Widely regarded as one of India’s greatest tennis icons, Bopanna’s career was built on his booming serve, sharp net play and enduring consistency in doubles. He represented India with pride at the Davis Cup and the Olympic Games, inspiring a generation of players through his professionalism and humility.
Bopanna’s breakthrough came in 2017 when he clinched the French Open mixed doubles title with Gabriela Dabrowski. But his crowning achievement arrived in 2024, when, at the age of 43, he captured the Australian Open men’s doubles crown and rose to World No. 1 — a feat that underscored his longevity and relentless drive.
Reflecting on his journey from Coorg to the world stage, Rohan Bopanna wrote, “Starting my journey from a small town in Coorg, chopping blocks of wood to strengthen my serve, jogging through coffee estates to build stamina, and chasing dreams on cracked courts — to standing under the lights of the biggest arenas in the world — it all feels surreal. Tennis hasn’t been just a game for me; it has given me purpose when I was lost, strength when I was broken, and belief when the world doubted me.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Bopanna thanked his family, especially his parents, sister Rashmi, wife Supriya, and daughter Tridha. “You’ve been my anchors and my reasons to keep going,” he wrote. “To my daughter — every match I played in these last years, I played for you, to show you that dreams are worth fighting for.”
He also expressed deep gratitude to his long-time coach Scott Davidoff, saying, “You’ve seen me through every phase — the highs, the frustrations, the comebacks — and helped shape not just the player, but the man I am today.”
Over his illustrious career, Rohan Bopanna reached five Grand Slam finals — one in men’s doubles and four in mixed doubles — partnering the likes of Matthew Ebden, Gabriela Dabrowski, Timea Babos, and Sania Mirza. His success and sportsmanship made him one of the most respected figures on tour.
“To my fellow players — thank you for the respect, the rivalries, and the brotherhood. To my fans — your love has been my fuel,” he said. “Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life. Every serve, every point, every match — I played for that flag.”
Though he has stepped away from competition, Rohan Bopanna hinted that his connection with tennis will continue. “This game gave me everything, and now I want to give back — to help young dreamers from small towns believe that their beginnings don’t define their limits. My love for this beautiful game will never fade,” he concluded.
As the curtain falls on a career that combined power with poise, Bopanna leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, passion, and pride — one that will continue to inspire Indian tennis for generations to come.
