Indian Summer at Roland Garros

India's Rohan Bopanna returns the ball as he plays with his teammate Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas against Philippines' Treat Huey and Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin during their men doubles tennis match at the Roland Garros 2017 French Open on June 2, 2017 in Paris. / AFP PHOTO / François-Xavier MARIT

Rohan Bopanna lifted his first Grand Slam title by winning the French Open mixed doubles trophy with Canadian partner Gabriela Dabrowski, becoming only the forth Indian to clinch a major on Thrusday.

Bopanna started playing at the age of 11. He reached his career high doubles rankings in 2013 when he was ranked World No. 3 in the ATP rankings. Although, he’d reached his career-high singles rankings of World No.213 in 2007.

Picture Credit: Dna India

Here’s an interview with Bopanna talking about his inspirations and future of tennis in India –

1. Who or what has played an important role in building your career?

I believe the main component to my career has been discipline and 200% commitment, not only from me, but the whole set of people around me — my family, coaches and trainers.

2. How important was technology and sports science in your career?

With technology improving so much over the years, I feel its very important to make use of it. It can help your game as it is a huge educational potential for the growth of the sport and your game.

3. What are your views on the future of the Indian tennis scene?

We have some top quality juniors playing good grade of tennis at the highest level, yet I feel we have no grass root system and zero support from the federation. This lack of support makes it harder for any child to pick up the sport… So, if you ask me, high level of coaching and A-1infrastructure has to be the order of the day from day-one. Only then can we expect great performances at International level.

 

Header Picture Credit: newindianexpress

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