Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA), in association with Serving Aces, hosted a special felicitation ceremony at the KSLTA Lawns here on Saturday to celebrate the extraordinary career and lasting legacy of Rohan Bopanna, India’s most successful and influential tennis professional.
The evening brought together stalwarts of Indian tennis, former teammates, officials, family and friends, all united in paying tribute to a career that has spanned more than two decades at the highest level of the sport.
From Grand Slam triumphs to historic Davis Cup moments, Bopanna’s journey was recalled as one marked by resilience, reinvention and sustained excellence.
Bopanna’s illustrious career has been highlighted by major milestones, including his Grand Slam titles at the 2017 French Open in mixed doubles and the 2024 Australian Open men’s doubles.
In 2024, he etched his name into the record books by becoming the oldest world No. 1 in men’s doubles, a rare achievement that underscored his longevity, fitness and competitive hunger on the ATP Tour.
Over the years, he has won more than 25 ATP Tour doubles titles and featured in multiple Grand Slam finals, consistently competing among the world’s elite.
His contribution to Indian tennis extends far beyond titles. A mainstay of India’s Davis Cup teams for over a decade, Bopanna represented the country with distinction in both home and away ties.
One of his most iconic moments came during the 2010 Davis Cup World Group Play-off against Brazil in Chennai. With India trailing 0–2, Bopanna produced a decisive singles victory over Ricardo Mello, inspiring a dramatic 3–2 comeback that secured India’s place in the World Group — a performance that remains etched in Indian Davis Cup folklore.
He also represented India at multiple Olympic Games, reinforcing the nation’s presence on the global sporting stage.
Born on March 4, 1980, in Coorg, Karnataka, Bopanna was introduced to tennis at a young age before moving to Bengaluru to pursue professional training. His early years on the international circuit were defined by perseverance and self-belief, often competing with limited resources.
After beginning his career in singles, he made a successful transition to doubles, where his powerful serve, aggressive net play and tactical acumen helped him flourish at the highest level.
Off the court, Bopanna has remained deeply committed to the growth of Indian tennis. Through the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Development Foundation, he has focused on grassroots initiatives, talent identification and providing quality training opportunities to young players across the country.
Speaking at the felicitation, Sunil Yajaman, Joint Secretary of KSLTA, said Bopanna’s professionalism, leadership and longevity have set new benchmarks for Indian tennis and inspired a generation of doubles players to dream of success on the world tour.
The ceremony concluded with warm interactions between Bopanna and members of the tennis fraternity, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he commands across generations.
It was an evening that celebrated not just an exceptional career, but a legacy that continues to shape the present and future of Indian tennis.
