Firstpost Exclusive: Oldest World No. 1s Rohan Bopanna, Novak Djokovic ‘still going strong’

Novak Djokovic and Rohan Bopanna are unarguably two of the most iconic tennis players of their generation. Djokovic and Bopanna are currently ranked World No 1 in singles and doubles ATP Rankings respectively, and it was around the same time, in 2003 when they turned pro in tennis. And if there’s anything that has defined the duo’s two-decade tennis careers, it’s the experience they bring to the fore.

Bopanna became the world No. 1 in doubles at the age of 43, and reclaimed it at 44, whereas Djokovic, 36, surpassed Roger Federer to become the oldest No 1 in ATP Rankings history.

Bopanna had clinched the men’s doubles title at the Australian Open this year, pairing with Matthew Ebden.

During a Firstpost exclusive conversation, Djokovic and Bopanna were involved in a brief discussion on various topics, including the possibility of the Serb coming to India and playing a match. “I think we’re still going strong. Tennis teaches you so many wonderful things, and I think experience wins, and that is where we’ve got it,” Bopanna told Djokovic in the video.

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To which, Djokovic replies: “I’ll say experience, but still being devoted and dedicated to the game. Every single day, I see him (Bopanna) in the gym, countless hours, also with the physio, recovery is more (both smile), but it’s amazing to share the tour with you for so many years and its incredible to be World No 1 in singles and doubles at the same time.

“That’s great for Serbian tennis and Indian tennis. Hopefully, we can do something in India soon. We can play there. I really look forward to it. I really wish to experience that. I haven’t been to India for many years,” added the Serb.

Djokovic had last played in India during the exhibition International Tennis Premier League (ITPL) tournament, now defunct, which was held between 2014 and 2016.

“It’s amazing. It’s a huge country, to have tennis at such a high level and popularity right now in India. It’s very important for our sport. And you are contributing to that, of course with Sania Mirza, Mahesh Bhupathi, Leander Paes and everybody who paved the way. So, it’s amazing. We’re old but gold,” added Djokovic.

Bopanna concluded by saying: “India loves you. We’re hoping that you’re there soon, looking forward.”