The Indian Tennis legend Rohan Bopanna created history at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne as he became the oldest to become a Grand Slam Champion. Bopanna, alongside his Australian teammate Matthew Ebden defeated the Italian pair of Simon Bolelli and Vavassori in the straight sets during the final of the men’s doubles at the Australian Open 2024.
Bopanna-Ebden duo won the first set of the final in a tie-breaker after claiming 7-6 in the main round followed by 7-0 in the tie-breaker round. Later in the second set, the Indo-Australian duo outplayed their Italian counterparts by a margin of 7-5 to clinch the historic title of the men’s doubles at the Australian Open 2024.
Later, Rohan Bopanna also spoke about his age factor and being the oldest to win a Grand Slam in history.
“As Matt said, you know how old I am. I’ve changed it a bit & said I’m a level 43, not age 43 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 a home slam,” said Bopanna after clinching the men’s doubles title at the Australian Open 2024.
"Age truly isn’t even a number for this guy" - Matthew Ebden about Rohan Bopanna
Earlier during the post-match statements, Bopanna’s partner and the local guy from Australia, Matthew Ebden also extended his gratitude to the former for support throughout the entire year.
“Thanks to my partner Rohan. He’s 43 years old. This is his first men’s Grand Slam doubles title. Age truly isn’t 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 last year. I’m forever grateful to you & your amazing team & your family here,” Ebden said.