In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Rohan Bopanna, India’s revered tennis stalwart, etched his name in the annals of tennis history at the 2024 Australian Open. Aged 43, Bopanna secured a momentous victory alongside his Australian partner, Matthew Ebden, in the men’s doubles quarterfinals, setting the stage for an unprecedented achievement – becoming the oldest first-time World No. 1 in ATP men’s doubles ranking.
The journey to this historic milestone was not without its challenges. The match encountered a brief delay due to bubbles on the court caused by overnight rain in Melbourne. Undeterred, the Indo-Aussie pair swiftly closed out the opening set with a 6-4 triumph, showcasing Bopanna’s experience and composure under varying conditions.
The second set witnessed a resilient performance from the Argentine duo of Máximo González and Andrés Molteni, testing Bopanna and Ebden early on. However, the No. 2 seed duo’s mastery in tie-breaks proved pivotal. With a flawless record of 4-0 in tie-breaks throughout the Melbourne tournament, Bopanna and Ebden navigated the pressure, securing victory and maintaining their impressive streak.
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Notably, this victory on Court 3 marked a significant milestone for Bopanna in his 17th consecutive appearance at Melbourne Park since his debut in 2008. The seasoned player, who had previously achieved third-round finishes six times, broke new ground by reaching the semifinals for the first time in his illustrious career. This achievement not only reflects Bopanna’s enduring passion for the sport but also demonstrates his ability to continually evolve and excel on the Grand Slam stage.
The impending World No. 1 ranking, to be officially announced on Monday after the final, adds another layer of distinction to Bopanna’s extensive career. Surpassing the previous record held by Rajeev Ram, who reached the pinnacle at 38 in October 2022, Bopanna’s ascent to the top spot is a testament to his longevity, skill, and unwavering dedication to tennis.
This triumph in Melbourne follows Bopanna’s historic feat just four months prior when he became the oldest man in the Open Era to reach a Grand Slam final at the US Open. Partnering with Ebden, they exhibited resilience and tenacity, setting the stage for the Indian tennis icon to continue making waves in the sport more than two decades after turning professional.
As Rohan Bopanna prepares to bask in the glory of his latest achievement, the tennis world celebrates the enduring legacy of a grand old man who continues to redefine the limits of what is possible on the court.