Daijiworld Media Network - Paris

Paris, Nov 1: Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna, one of the country’s most celebrated doubles players and among the few Indians to have clinched a Grand Slam title, has officially announced his retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of an illustrious career spanning over two decades on the ATP circuit.

The 45-year-old veteran played his final professional match at the Paris Masters, partnering Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik, where the duo bowed out in the opening round earlier this week.

In an emotional farewell statement titled “A Goodbye… But Not The End,” Bopanna reflected on his remarkable journey that began in the coffee hills of Coorg and culminated on the grand stages of world tennis.

“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,” he wrote.

Bopanna, who captured hearts with his consistency and sportsmanship, had earlier announced his retirement from the Davis Cup in 2023, playing his last tie against Morocco in Lucknow. He also represented India one last time at the Paris Olympics in 2024 before stepping away from international duty.

Known for his powerful serve and calm demeanour on court, Bopanna’s career included numerous ATP titles, a Grand Slam triumph, and several memorable moments that inspired generations of Indian tennis enthusiasts.

As tributes pour in from across the sporting world, fans and fellow players hailed him as a true ambassador of Indian tennis—one who combined talent, humility, and perseverance to take Indian tennis to the global stage.