Renowned tennis player Rohan Bopanna has announced his retirement after an illustrious career spanning over 22 years. The former World No. 1, who is known primarily for his achievements in doubles, shared the news with his fans on social media at the age of 44. His departure from the sport marks the conclusion of a remarkable journey that included two Grand Slam titles and numerous memorable moments on the court.
Bopanna’s decision to retire comes shortly after his historic victory at the 2024 Australian Open, where he became the oldest player to win a Grand Slam title at that age. Reflecting on his career, he took to Instagram to express his gratitude and emotions. “A goodbye… But not the end,” he wrote, adding, “How do you bid farewell to something that gave your life its meaning?”
From Humble Beginnings to the Grand Stage
Bopanna’s journey in tennis began in his hometown of Coorg, India. He fondly recalled the early days of his training, which included chopping wood to build strength for his serve and jogging through coffee estates to enhance his stamina. His path from humble beginnings to competing in the world’s largest arenas is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport.
He continued, “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.” Bopanna’s resilience has been evident throughout his career, as he faced various challenges and emerged stronger each time.
With a total of 27 doubles titles to his name, Bopanna’s final victory came at the Miami Open while partnering with fellow player Matthew Ebden. Even as he neared the end of his career, he remained a formidable competitor, reaching the final of the Japan Open in September 2025, where he finished as runner-up alongside Takeru Yuzuki. This match ended in defeat against the duo of Hugo Nys and Édouard Roger-Vasselin.
A Legacy in Doubles Tennis
Throughout his career, Bopanna participated in six Grand Slam finals in doubles, achieving victory in two of them. Notably, the only title that eluded him was at Wimbledon, which he aimed to capture but never did. His legacy in tennis will be remembered not just for the titles but also for his sportsmanship and contributions to the game.
As the tennis community reflects on Bopanna’s accomplishments, his heartfelt farewell resonates with fans and fellow athletes alike. His career serves as an inspiration, illustrating the power of perseverance and passion in pursuing one’s dreams.
Bopanna’s departure from the sport adds to a growing list of retirements in 2025, including that of fellow competitor Kyle Edmund. As he steps away from the court, Bopanna leaves behind a rich legacy that will undoubtedly influence future generations of tennis players.
