He might be the oldest major winner in the Open era after clinching the 2024 Australian Open at the age of 43 but the prospect of having a go at the legendary American Andre Agassi offers a mouth watering prospect for Rohan Bopanna.
Bopanna and Agassi are scheduled to play in an exhibition match to launch the PWR DUPR India League in Mumbai on December 13.
“Any time Agassi is part of an event it is always exciting. So, yeah looking forward to just meeting him. It has been a long time since I met him and interacted with him, so just going to enjoy being there,” Bopanna said, on the sidelines of ASICS Limited 20th edition merchandise of Tata Mumbai Marathon.
“I have met him a few times. Obviously, never really played against him but ofcourse watched him many, many times and also when the IPTL happened he was there as one of the legends and I saw him playing and interacted more with him. At Wimbledon also I got a chance to meet and speak with him. So looking forward to catching up with him.”
Talking about his favourite memory of Agassi, the Indian tennis star spoke about the US icon’s technique.
“Just how early he used to hit the ball and how hard he used to hit the ball. No matter who was serving, he was inside the baseline to return and I think that was great to watch. Ofcourse everybody knows his results and I think that aspect of his game was brilliant,” Bopanna stated.
The Bangalorean was also elated with his recent outing at the Tennis Premier League (TPL) where he played for the Rajasthan Rangers.
“I absolutely enjoyed it. I felt it is great for Indian tennis not only for the players who are playing but also for the youngsters to watch some of the top Indian players in action. Some international players also came there and I feel it is a team atmosphere and a fun atmosphere. I think this year especially lot of people came and supported the Tennis Premier League and it is only growing and you get to interact and also see how these players are playing. That was a fun aspect.”
Bopanna was chuffed about reuniting with his old doubles mate Leander Paes.
“I thought I had a lot of experience on court till I met Leander there on the side. He brought in extra experience and that always helps in team competitions. I had my former coach Nandan Bal as well so yeah it was exciting to be back.”
The Kodava expressed his excitement about returning to play at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) courts.
“Lot of great memories playing at CCI. Two finals back in the day when we used to have ATP events when Mahesh was running it. It’s good to be back playing again there. I recently became a member of the CCI as well. So it was nice part to come back and play there. Also we are having the ‘Doubles Dream of India’ camp there. Its still going on till the 13th. Everyday we have been training there. All of us 14 guys are training there. Still few more days left for the camp. So yeah, CCI has been special,” Bopanna added.
Bopanna was optimistic about the future of Indian tennis and felt there are a few good players coming through the ranks.
“I watched Karan Singh play couple of years ago in the Davis Cup. He was part of our team and I have seen him here in the TPL. He has become stronger and grown a lot, played some good tennis. I think he has very good potential. If channelled in the right direction, there are a few good juniors who are coming from India who can be of massive impact in Indian tennis and the national team as well.
