Rohan Bopanna: A Legend Defying Age at Indian Wells Masters 1000

By Sujoy Roy | AITA

Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna has once again shown that age is just a number as he clinched the BNP Paribas Open – Indian Wells Masters 1000 doubles title with his partner Matthew Ebden. The duo defeated the top-seeded pair of Wesley Koolhoof and Neal Skupski in a thrilling final that went the distance, with a final scoreline of 6-3 2-6 10-8.

This victory has marked Bopanna and Ebden’s first Masters 1000 title as a team, and their second in their first season as a pairing. The Indian veteran has been in sublime form, displaying his exceptional skills and experience throughout the tournament. His impressive performances have earned him recognition as the oldest man to ever win a Masters 1000 doubles title, a feat that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Bopanna’s journey to the Indian Wells Masters 1000 title was not an easy one. He had to overcome several formidable opponents en route to the final. In the semi-finals, he and Matthew Ebden defeated defending champions John Isner and Jack Sock of the USA in a closely fought encounter, winning 7(8)-6(6), 7(7)-6(2).

In the quarter-finals, the Indo-Australian duo upstaged the Canadian pair of Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov 6-4, 7-5. Bopanna-Ebden received a walkover in the round of 16 over Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria and Hubert Hurkacz of Poland. In their opener, Bopanna Ebden beat Brazil’s Rafael Matos and Spain’s David Vega Hernandez 7-5, 3-6, 10-6.

The victory at Indian Wells Masters 1000 is a significant milestone for Bopanna, who has been one of India’s most consistent performers on the tennis circuit for more than two decades. He has been a key figure in India’s Davis Cup team, helping his country secure many memorable victories over the years. Bopanna’s success also marks the first time an Indian man has won the BNP Paribas Open doubles title since tennis legend Leander Paes did so in 2007.

The victory at the Indian Wells Masters 1000 has propelled him to ATP Doubles 11 ranking in the world. This is a significant achievement for the Indian veteran, who has been steadily climbing the rankings ladder over the past few months. Bopanna’s consistent performances and remarkable form have earned him recognition as one of the best doubles players in the world. The Indian veteran has been a stalwart in men’s doubles, reaching a career-high of world No. 3 in 2013. He has won numerous titles over the years and has been a vital cog in India’s Davis Cup team.

The Indian tennis fraternity and fans around the world are in awe of Bopanna’s remarkable feat. His win has reignited discussions on the need to recognize and appreciate the contribution of senior athletes in sports. Bopanna’s performance is a perfect example of why older athletes should not be overlooked, and how their experience can prove invaluable to teams and competitions. Overall, It is a proud moment for Indian tennis and a defining moment in Bopanna’s illustrious career.