OVER Two Decades; Two Grand Slam Titles; Milestone Moments For The Country — Rohan Bopanna spreads a rich platter of spectacular achievements for his fans to choose from. Yet, his story cannot be restricted to these simple statistics. It is found beneath the hard numbers which establish his longevity but hardly tell the saga of how he created his own path to become an Indian tennis legend. As he announced retirement at the age of 45, Bopanna has given a new meaning to the word perseverance.

 

He persevered when he lost his way, he carried on in the big shadows around him, and he found the road through the cantankerousness associated with tennis administration in this country towards his own calm, and glory. Bopanna’s retirement from professional tennis has ended a brilliant chapter in Indian tennis which is still seeking its top star. Bopanna nearly fitted the bill with his gutsy show and self-belief. Though the tall athlete did not make much in the singles circuit, he etched his name as a tremendous doubles player earning respect from the best in the business. This will remain Bopanna’s lasting imprint on tennis. He taught the new generation how to fight to be among the worthy competitors. It is a valuable contribution to the game. The fighting spirit that defined Bopanna can be found in the Australian Open doubles crown he won last year with partner Matthew Ebden. It was achieved in the twilight of his career. When muscles prodded to a full-stop, Bopanna decided to take a fresh plunge at glory.

 

It was possible only for a resolute mind to shrug off all negative thoughts and become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the history of tennis. He scripted a tale of courage and fortitude in the gruelling arena called international sports. This will become the rich gift for the budding sportspersons from the fighter called Bopanna. Bopanna’s career is an example for generations to derive inspiration. What stands out in this amazing story is the refusal of the champion to follow ordinary norms that come with advancing age. Instead of going by the regular pattern of retirement after reaching a certain age, Bopanna chose the difficult path. He already had a role model in Leander Paes -- the true-blue fighter who never thought of slowing down.

 

Like Paes defied age and perceptions, Bopanna, too, managed to tread the path on the strength of his spirit. Why Bopanna’s career should find a special mention in the history of tennis in India is because of the difficult way he had to take. He had to weave around the legendary tales of Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi. Both had become superstars in their own right, first as a pair and even after they had separated. Bopanna had to establish himself as a worthy equal by delivering big. That he achieved it and became part of the same ilk tells the story of his grit and determination.