Rohan Bopanna Becomes World’s Oldest No. 1 Player During Australia Open

Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna has made history by becoming the world’s oldest top-ranked player in men’s doubles at the age of 43. 

He achieved this remarkable feat after reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 Australian Open with his partner Matthew Ebden. Last year they were playing together in the 2023 US Open.

Together, they defeated the Argentinian pair Máximo González and Andrés Molteni in straight sets, with scores of 6-4 and 7-6 (5).

This achievement is significant for Bopanna, who will be playing in the Australian Open semi-finals for the first time. 

His tennis journey includes reaching the men’s doubles semi-finals at the French Open and Wimbledon and being a two-time runner-up at the US Open. His sole Grand Slam title was won at the French Open in 2017 in the mixed doubles category.

Bopanna’s partnership with Ebden has been successful, with the duo entering the Australian Open as the second seed. Previously, Bopanna had crossed 500 career wins, a milestone in Indian tennis. 

His achievements also include becoming the oldest player to win a match at the year-end Finals and an ATP Masters series doubles title, which he won at the Indian Wells tournament.

Bopanna’s new ranking surpasses the previous record held by American Rajeev Ram, who became world no. 1 at 38. Bopanna’s tennis career began in 2006 at the Australian Open, and he has consistently participated in the event since then.

The Indian sports community, including tennis legend Sania Mirza and squash star Joshna Chinappa, has expressed pride and joy over Bopanna’s historic achievement. 

Mahesh Bhupathi, Sania Mirza, and other Indian sports figures have celebrated Bopanna’s success, acknowledging his hard work and dedication.

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Bopanna and Ebden are set to face Tomas Machac and Zhizhen Zhang in the semi-finals. This success is a proud moment for Indian tennis. 

Tennis fans are praising Bopanna’s remarkable career and his contribution to the sport. His official world no. 1 ranking will be confirmed when the ATP rankings are updated next Monday.