Photo – ATP Tour/BNP Paribas Open

At 44 years old, Rohan Bopanna continues to collect accolade after accolade at an age when most tennis players are contemplating retirement or are already retired. He won the Australian Open in 2024 with his partner, Matthew Ebden, and subsequently became the oldest man to become world number 1. He has grown the game of tennis, not only in India, but around the world, as fans flock from many countries to catch a glimpse of this superstar. Bopanna shows no sign of slowing down as he and Ebden get ready to play at the 2024 Miami Open next week.

Linda Humphrey of Portland, Oregon has been coming to the BNP Paribas Open to watch Bopanna for at least the past fifteen years.

“My daughter played tennis at Claremont college, so I used to come with her to the tournament at Indian Wells. That was when I first saw Rohan play,” said Humphrey, while watching Bopanna in his first-round clash at the 2024 BNP Paribas Open.

During the match, she marveled at his wizardry at the net and his ability to serve his way out of trouble.

“He’s really something, isn’t he?” she asked. “You know, I came here early to the court, so I could get a good seat. I love the doubles game, and I am here to watch Rohan play,” Humphrey described during a break in the action.

As she left the court after Bopanna and Ebden had lost their first round clash, Humphrey was just a little sad.

“It was a great match, but I’m sorry he lost. I wish I could have seen Bopanna play more this year.”

As Bopanna’s game matures like a fine wine, perhaps Humphrey will only have to wait another year to see him at the 2025 BNP Paribas Open.