Australian Open 2024: 'Oldest World No.1' Rohan Bopanna makes history; enters men's doubles final with Matthew
In a historic feat, Rohan Bopanna, the oldest World No. 1, and partner Matthew Ebden secure a place in the Australian Open doubles finals, showcasing their prowess on the Grand Slam stage.
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FollowRohan Bopanna and his partner Matthew Ebden have earned a spot in the Australian Open doubles finals, displaying their excellence on the prestigious Grand Slam platform.Â
One day after securing the world No. 1 ranking, making him the oldest player to achieve this milestone for the first time in his career, Rohan Bopanna, the Indian tennis veteran, delivered a remarkable performance alongside Australia's Matthew Ebden. The duo secured a sensational victory on Thursday, propelling them to their inaugural Australian Open final in men's doubles. Facing Zhang Zhizhen and Tomas Machac in the semifinal at the Rod Laver Arena, Bopanna and Ebden triumphed with a 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (10-7) victory under the closed roof.
Executing a clear strategy, Bopanna and Ebden focused on attacking their opponents at the net. The experienced pair took the lead by breaking Machac's serve in the fourth game of the match, with Ebden displaying aggressive forehands. Bopanna efficiently served out the opening set, securing a 6-3 victory in just 32 minutes.
The second set witnessed a resurgence from Machac and Zhang, who applied renewed energy and tactics. Breaking Ebden's serve, the unseeded pair staged a comeback, capitalizing on a slightly off-form Ebden, who had been performing exceptionally in Australia.
In the final set, Bopanna and Ebden regained their rhythm, breaking Zhang's serve in the fifth game. Although facing a challenge when Zhang orchestrated a break back, the Indo-Aussie pair showcased their resilience in a super tiebreak, maintaining their flawless tiebreaker record in Melbourne this year. With nerves of steel, they adjusted to the fast-paced play of Machac at the net, and Bopanna sealed the victory with an ace.
Looking ahead, Bopanna and Ebden are set to face the winner of the second semifinal, either Germany's Dominik Koepfer and Yannick Hanfmann or the Italian duo of Andrea Vavassori and Simone Bolelli, in the Australian Open final at the Rod Laver Arena. For Bopanna, aged 43 and turning 44 in March, the potential victory would mark his first men's doubles Grand Slam trophy, adding another accolade to his illustrious career.
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