It took 19 different partners and 61 tries, but Rohan Bopanna has finally set another record by winning his first men's doubles Grand Slam title.
The 43-year-old Indian is already set to become the oldest number one in men's doubles and became the oldest men's doubles major winner at the Australian Open.
In Saturday's final, he and Matthew Ebden defeated Italy's Simone Borrelli and Andrea Vavassoli 7-6 (7-0), 7-5.
”[It’s] It was definitely the best moment of my career,” Bopanna said.
“I'm playing the best tennis of my life.”
Bopanna is now the Open Era leader for the most attempts to win a men's doubles Grand Slam title, surpassing American Rajeev Ram's 58.
At 43 years and 329 days old, he became the oldest player to win a Grand Slam doubles title.
Since teaming up with Australian Ebden early last year, he has set a number of records including being the oldest Masters champion, oldest Grand Slam finalist and oldest player to win an ATP Finals match. It's here.
Bopanna, who topped the world rankings for the first time on Monday, threw his racket in the air, fell on his back and bumped chest to chest with Ebden after clinching victory in Melbourne.
“He's young at heart, a champion, a warrior,” Ebden said of his partner.
Bopanna won the Australian Open men's doubles on his 17th attempt, equaling the record held by compatriot Leander Paes.
During the trophy presentation ceremony, Bopanna revealed that he had considered quitting the sport a few years ago.
Bopanna, who will share the A$730,000 (approximately £377,700) prize money with Ebden, said: “I sent a video message saying it was over because I couldn't win any matches.”
“It's been five months without winning a match and I thought this was the end of my journey.
“I think the perseverance within me has kept me going. I've changed so much and found a great partner. Thank you.”
