Rohan Bopanna is currently competing in the men’s doubles event at the Hamburg European Open in Germany alongside his partner, Sriram Balaji. Over the past 18 months, the 44-year-old Indian tennis star has experienced a phenomenal phase in his career. Now, with eyes set on the Paris Olympics 2024, there is renewed hope and excitement among fans.
In a special episode of ‘Backstage with Boria,’ Rohan Bopanna discussed his preparations for the Olympics, his partnership with Balaji, and his thoughts on the defeat at Rio 2016 (mixed doubles with Sania Mirza) with RevSportz’s Editor-in-chief, Boria Majumdar.
Said Bopanna: “In 2016, I do not think that any of us thought we would be here at 2024. Today we are here, and we have to give our every shot. The proudest moment is that we are here to represent India.” Bopanna admits he never imagined he would be leading India in Paris in 2024, reflecting on the journey and the incredible past 18 months. “We have another shot at this beautiful sport and journey. Now, we are in a good position to give our best shot at the Olympics.”
Bopanna spoke on his preparations: “For the first time, after almost over a decade, I am going into the (Olympic) Games with good camaraderie. Last time, it was Mahesh (Bhupathi) back in the 2012 Olympics. We are getting some time to spend together before going into the Olympics. I am speaking from Hamburg, Germany, playing a tournament here with Balaji. We have a good team: coach Balu (M.Balachandran), who has been working with Balaji extensively, and Rebecca, our physio.”
Rohan Bopanna expressed gratitude for the support from the TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) and emphasizes the importance of the next 10 days in getting to know each other better and preparing strategically. “I have known Balaji for a long time. It will be wonderful to understand and play alongside the youngsters.”
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“If we play up to our potential, we can beat any team in Paris,” Rohan Bopanna is determined to excel at #Olympics2024 as it is the only box yet to be ticked!
The gold medallist at the Asian Games opens up about the differences between Grand Slams and… pic.twitter.com/26dCRhQ6MW
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Explaining why he chose Balaji, Bopanna says, “It came down to two guys: Balaji and Yuki Bhambri. Both have been performing well on the surface (surface) and playing at a higher level. I needed someone who is more athletic and agile, and Balaji fits that profile. After discussions with my coach Scott Davidoff and Balachandran, we all felt Balaji was the right choice.”
Bopanna highlights the distinct nature of the Olympics: “Olympic Games are a completely different ball game. You are surrounded by world-class athletes, and it is about who handles the pressure and plays better on that day. If Bala and I play to our potential, we have every chance of winning against any team out there!” He emphasises the emotional significance of representing India at the Olympics: “When you compete in the Olympics, it’s 1.4 billion people watching you. Representing India at the Olympic Games is an emotion, more than a sport.”
Bopanna acknowledges the difficulty of the defeat in Rio 2016 but focuses on the growth and lessons learned since then. “There are many things in that journey that taught you to be a better player and person. Now, with all those experiences, whenever you get an opportunity to represent your country, you just go for it.”
Bopanna is proud to play a leading role and bring his experience to the team. “There is a lot I can bring to Bala, especially in strategic planning against certain players. We have a coach traveling with us who can provide insights on where we can improve. These next 10-12 days are crucial.”
Bopanna also praised Sumit Nagal’s progress: “Sumit truly believed in himself, leading to his current position. The massive jump in the rankings and his qualification for the Olympics is a proud moment for the country. His confidence is growing each week, and it will be great to have him in Paris.”
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