Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna has a simple message for youngsters hoping to make a career in sport: believe in yourself, keep learning and never give up. The former world No. 1, who won multiple Grand Slams, says believing in yourself is the first step to success, especially for young players trying to find their way in a competitive sporting environment.
In an exclusive interaction with The Daily Jagran, Bopanna spoke about the challenges of building a sporting career, the importance of mental strength and the lessons he has learnt during more than two decades in professional tennis. He also shared advice for youngsters who dream of representing India but are unsure about what lies ahead.
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The veteran also acknowledged the importance of having the right people around young athletes. Coaches, parents and experienced professionals can guide them through difficult phases, but the determination to follow their dreams has to come from within.
Rohan Bopanna On Why One Should Never Give Up
There are seldom straight lines to a career in professional sport. Young players go through defeats, injuries and spells when progress can be difficult to see. Bopanna believes they must learn to treat every day as a fresh opportunity rather than allowing one bad performance to affect their confidence.
The Indian tennis star, who played at the top level well into his 40s, has had his share of challenges. His career has been shaped by his ability to adapt to changing conditions, overcome injuries and remain competitive over the years.
Sharing his advice for youngsters, Bopanna encouraged them to look beyond the results of a single day and focus on the bigger picture.
His message is particularly relevant for young Indian tennis players who are working towards professional careers in a sport that demands patience, discipline and long-term commitment.
How Rohan Bopanna Maintained His Longevity In Tennis
Bopanna also spoke about the factors that helped him remain relevant in professional tennis for more than two decades. Injuries and the physical demands of the sport can make it difficult for players to maintain their level over a long period, but he believes adaptability and mental strength played a major role in his journey.
The former world No. 1 acknowledged that injuries were part of his career but explained that his focus remained on finding ways to overcome them and continue competing.
His career reached another major milestone in 2024 when he won the Australian Open men’s doubles title alongside Australia’s Matthew Ebden. At 43, Bopanna became the oldest man to win an ATP Grand Slam men’s doubles title in the Open Era.
From Ball Kid To Grand Slam Champion
Bopanna’s message to youngsters comes from a career that has taken him from the early stages of tennis to the biggest stages in the sport. He also reflected on his journey while attending the Australian Open ball kids programme in partnership with Kia.
The programme holds a special place for the Indian star because he began his own journey as a ball kid. Today, he gets to present trophies to youngsters who are getting an opportunity to experience tennis at a high level.