PTC Web Desk: Veteran Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna has officially announced his retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of a two-decade-long illustrious career that inspired generations of Indian athletes. The 45-year-old played his final match at the Paris Masters 1000, where he partnered Alexander Bublik. The duo bowed out in the Round of 32 after a hard-fought encounter, losing 5-7, 6-2, 10-8 to John Peers and James Tracy.
Widely regarded as one of India’s finest tennis players, Bopanna carved his reputation through his powerful serve, sharp volleys, and unrelenting determination on the doubles circuit. His breakthrough moment came in 2017, when he captured the French Open mixed doubles title alongside Gabriela Dabrowski.
The Coorg-born ace represented India in multiple Davis Cup ties and Olympic Games, becoming one of the most consistent and respected names in international tennis.
In 2024, Bopanna achieved a remarkable milestone when he won the Australian Open men’s doubles title with Matthew Ebden, becoming the oldest player to reach World No. 1 in doubles at the age of 43. The victory not only reflected his longevity but also his ability to adapt and compete at the highest level despite the physical demands of the sport.
Throughout his career, Bopanna reached five Grand Slam finals — one in men’s doubles (2023 US Open with Matthew Ebden) and four in mixed doubles (2017 French Open with Gabriela Dabrowski, 2018 Australian Open with Timea Babos, and 2023 Australian Open with Sania Mirza). He also appeared in the ATP Finals title matches in 2012 (with Mahesh Bhupathi) and 2015 (with Florin Mergea).
From the coffee estates of Coorg to the world’s grandest tennis arenas, Bopanna’s journey has been defined by perseverance, professionalism, and passion. His consistency across decades has cemented his place among India’s sporting greats.
Rohan Bopanna’s retirement post
"A Goodbye... But Not The End."
How do you bid farewell to something that gave your life its meaning? After 20 unforgettable years on tour however, it's time... I'm officially hanging up my racquet. As I write this, my heart feels both heavy and grateful. 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. 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.
Every time I stepped onto a court, it taught me perseverance, resilience to rise, to fight again when everything inside me said I couldn't - and most of all, reminded me why I started and who I am. To my wonderful parents - you are my heroes. You gave me everything so I could chase this dream. The sacrifices you made, the quiet strength you carried, the faith you never lost...I owe it all to you. To my sister, Rashmi - you've been my gentle constant and my cheerleader through it all. You've always seen the best in me, even when I couldn't. To my family - thank you for being my anchor, my safe haven, and the love that kept me standing through every high and low.
To my wife, Supriya - my greatest partner off court. You've lived this journey with me, the long flights, sleepless nights, and moments I've missed. You have carried our world with such grace while I chased mine. Your love, patience and strength are the quiet reasons behind every success I've ever had. To my daughter, Tridha - you've changed the way I see everything. You have given me new purpose and a softer strength. Every match I played in these last years, I played for you, to show you that dreams are worth fighting for and that kindness and courage matter more than winning. You are my heart.
To every coach, partner, trainer, physio, my team, and my world of friends who walked this path with me - thank you for pushing me, lifting me, and believing in me through every chapter. To Scott - my coach, mentor and friend for 12 incredible years. You've seen me through every phase - the highs, the frustrations, the vulnerabilities, the comebacks - and helped shape not just the player, but the man I am today. Your belief, guidance and calm through it all have been my grounding.
To my fellow players - thank you for the respect, the rivalries and the brotherhood. Lastly, to my fans - your love has been my fuel. You celebrated me when I triumphed and stood by me when I fell. You have given my career perspective and purpose. Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life. Each time I walked onto the court with the tricolour beside my name, I felt its pride and its value. Every serve, every point, every match - I played for that flag, for that feeling, for my country. Thank you, India.
I may be stepping away from competition, but my story with tennis isn't over. 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. That with belief, hard work, and heart - anything is possible. My gratitude is endless and my love for this beautiful game will never fade. This isn't goodbye... it's a thank you to everyone who shaped me, guided me, supported me and loved me. You're all a part of this story. You're all a part of me."
