Australian Open 2024: Rohan Bopanna scripts history, becomes oldest man to win Grand Slam Title

Australian Open 2024: Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna has created history by becoming the oldest man to win a Grand Slam title in the Open Era, securing a remarkable victory in the Australian Open 2024 men's doubles final alongside his Australian partner Matthew Ebden on Saturday. The duo defeated the Italian pair of Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in a thrilling match that showcased their resilience, skill, and unwavering determination.

Bopanna creates history

The Rod Laver Arena witnessed a captivating contest as Bopanna and Ebden faced a stern challenge from their Italian opponents. The first set was tightly contested, with neither pair giving an inch. It was only in the tie-breaker that Bopanna and Ebden displayed their dominance, winning it 7-0 to take the early lead.

The second set followed a similar pattern, with both teams holding serve. However, Bopanna's sharp return and Ebden's aggressive approach earned them the crucial break, giving them a 6-5 advantage. Ebden held his composure under immense pressure, securing the victory with a confident final serve.

The Indian tennis star said, "As Matt said, you definitely know how old I am. I’ve changed it a bit & said I’m a level 43, not age 43. Obviously this couldn't have been possible without a fantastic Aussie partner by my side. Thanks to Matt...we had a fantastic season last year. For me to win my first men's doubles grand slam here at the Asian pacific grand slam, it’s totally a home slam." 

Meanwhile, Ebden said, "Age truly really is not even a number for this guy. He’s young at heart, he’s a champion, he’s a warrior. He’s fought hard by my side this whole past year."

Bopanna inspires India and beyond

This triumph holds a special significance for Bopanna, as it is not only his second Grand Slam title—his first coming in mixed doubles at the 2017 French Open—but also his position as the oldest man to achieve this feat in the Open Era. The 43 years and nine months surpassed the previous record held by Dutchman Jean-Julien Roger. Bopanna also became the oldest Indian Grand Slam champion, overtaking Leander Paes' record set in 2013.

World number 1 tennis player

Earlier, Bopanna told reporters after his quarterfinal win, "It has been a dream to get close to my highest ranking. It has been little over a decade since I got to world No. 3 and after a successful 2023, I believed I could get to world No. 1, little did I know it would come 11 years later."

Bopanna's victory resonated with a sense of national pride, as it ended India's five-year wait for a Grand Slam title. His unwavering dedication to the sport and consistent excellence in the doubles circuit have earned him a place among the legends of Indian tennis. His historic win at the Australian Open has added a new chapter to the rich tapestry of tennis history.