Indian tennis player Rohan Bopanna made history at the Australian Open 2024 by securing the men's doubles title with his partner Matthew Ebden. The duo defeated Italy's Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in a thrilling final with a score of 7-6(0) 7-5 at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.
In an incredible achievement, Bopanna, at 43 years and 329 days, became the oldest man to win a Grand Slam title in the Open Era. This victory adds another accolade to his illustrious career, making him the second Indian to claim the Australian Open men's doubles title.
Bopanna's impressive win places him among a distinguished list of Indian tennis stars who have triumphed at the Australian Open, including legends like Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, Sania Mirza, and Martina Hingis.
The Australian Open 2024 victory marks Bopanna's second Grand Slam title, with his first being the French Open mixed doubles title in 2018. Bopanna is also the current World No. 1 in men's doubles.
During the tournament, the Indian tennis ace received further recognition as he was named for the prestigious Padma Shri award by the Indian government. Bopanna expressed his gratitude to his partner, Matthew Ebden, during the post-match presentation, emphasizing the significance of winning the men's doubles Grand Slam on the Asian-Pacific stage.