Following an exceptional performance at the US Open, Rohan Bopanna, a virtuoso in doubles tennis, is gearing up for his monumental 50th and final appearance in the Davis Cup this week. The 43-year-old tennis icon, driven by an unyielding desire to represent and triumph for India, recently etched his name in history as the oldest finalist at the US Open. Bopanna’s unflagging skills and extraordinary fitness stand as a beacon of inspiration for those looking to conquer life’s challenges. Despite the heart-wrenching loss in the final, his determination to seize every moment remains unshakeable.
In the gripping doubles final at the US Open, Bopanna and partner Matthew Ebden put up a valiant fight, ultimately succumbing to the formidable third-seeded duo of Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury, with a scoreline of 6-2, 3-6, 4-6. This marked Bopanna’s second appearance in a Grand Slam men’s doubles final, the first being thirteen years ago when he teamed up with Pakistan’s Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi. Yet, the coveted men’s doubles title continues to elude him.
Back on home soil, Bopanna is channeling his focus towards the Davis Cup tie, a monumental milestone in his illustrious career. Team India is poised to face off against Morocco in the World Group-II encounter on the challenging courts of the Vijayant Khand Stadium this upcoming weekend.
Bopanna expressed, “I always cherish and take immense pride in representing India, as it has always held a special place in my heart. I would love to conclude my Davis Cup career on a high note and am fully prepared for the challenge. I look forward to a positive outcome in the encounter.”
However, he also acknowledged the emotional weight of this moment. “It’s a mixed feeling, tinged with emotion. I’ve devoted a couple of decades to representing India in the Davis Cup, and now I’m gearing up for my last tie in Indian colors.”
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Bopanna shared the intensity of his experience in New York. “Saving seven match points in the quarterfinal was quite captivating. We played outstanding tennis, and it was a closely contested finish. Losing in the final was a tad disappointing,” he acknowledged.
Looking ahead, Bopanna anticipates the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, as another significant opportunity to earn honors for India. “It’s taking place after five years, and the Davis Cup will be an excellent platform for everyone to prepare adequately. I am genuinely thrilled to represent India and am hopeful for a successful performance,” he stated.
[Additional player statistics provided]
Born: March 4, 1980 Height: 1.93 m (6 ft 4 in) Turned pro: 2003 Plays: Right-handed (one-handed backhand) Highest ranking singles: No. 213 (23 July 2007) Career titles: 24 Highest ranking doubles: No. 3 (22 July 2013) Current ranking: No. 7 (11 September 2023) Grand Slam doubles results:
Australian Open: Third round (2008, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018) French Open: Semifinals (2022) Wimbledon: Semifinals (2013, 2015, 2023) US Open: Runner-up (2010, 2023) Davis Cup: 22–27 (singles 10–17, doubles 12–10)
