Rohan Bopanna Retires After Two Decades in Professional Tennis

Indian tennis veteran Rohan Bopanna has announced his retirement from professional tennis, concluding a remarkable career that spanned over two decades. The 45-year-old athlete, one of only four Indians to secure a Grand Slam title, made his final appearance on the ATP Tour at the Paris Masters, where he teamed up with Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik but lost in the opening round earlier this week.

In an emotional farewell statement titled “A Goodbye… But Not The End,” Bopanna shared reflections on his journey from his hometown of Coorg to prestigious international tennis arenas. He described his early days, stating, “Starting my journey from a small town of Coorg in India, 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.”

Bopanna’s career highlights include a successful run in doubles, where his achievements have resonated strongly within Indian tennis. He officially concluded his career representing India after the Paris Olympics in 2024. Earlier in 2023, he announced his retirement from the Davis Cup, where he played his last tie against Morocco in Lucknow.

Reflecting on his experiences, Bopanna expressed gratitude towards his coaches, teammates, and fans who supported him throughout his journey. He emphasized that while he may no longer compete professionally, his passion for tennis remains.

As tennis enthusiasts and fellow players celebrate his contributions to the sport, Bopanna’s legacy is expected to inspire future generations of athletes from India and beyond. His dedication to the game and the milestones he achieved serve as a testament to his commitment and resilience in a sport that demands both physical and mental fortitude.

Bopanna’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian tennis, yet his influence will continue to be felt in the sport.