Rohan Bopanna announces retirement, ending a 20-year journey: ‘Tennis gave me purpose when I was lost’

Indian tennis icon Rohan Bopanna, a veteran of three Olympic Games, has announced his retirement, bringing an end to a two-decade-long career. In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, Bopanna said, “A goodbye... but not the end.” Reflecting on his journey, he wrote, “After 20 unforgettable years on tour, it’s time… I’m officially hanging up my racquet.”

The 44-year-old, who began his tennis journey in Coorg, India, recalled his humble beginnings — “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.”

Bopanna, known for his powerful serve and doubles success, expressed deep gratitude for the sport that shaped his life. “Tennis hasn’t been just a game for me – it has given me purpose when I was lost, strength when I was broken and belief when the world doubted me.”

He also reflected on the lessons learned throughout his illustrious career, saying, “Every time I stepped onto a court, it taught me perseverance, resilience to rise, to fight again when everything inside me said I couldn’t – and most of all, reminded me why I started and who I am.”

Signing off with a heartfelt message, Bopanna thanked his fans and supporters with a simple note — “Thank you