Comes the long-awaited season six of the Tennis Premier League. And it has news sending castles of ecstasies amongst the fans: former World Number 1 Rohan Bopanna will join the League this December in Mumbai.
Currently ranked No. 6 in men’s doubles, Bopanna is one of the most decorated and loved tennis stars in India. This season, he will also make his maiden appearance in the Tennis Premier League tournament, which aims to revolutionize how tennis is consumed.
The 44-year-old Bopanna has enjoyed an eminent career, having won two Grand Slam titles: the Australian Open in Men’s Doubles this year and the French Open in Mixed Doubles in 2017. Furthermore, he has represented India in the Olympic Games on three occasions. With his best result being a fourth-place finish in Rio 2016.
Coming from Bengaluru, Bopanna is also the oldest player to achieve the World No. 1 ranking, which he did at the end of January this year. Having won over 25 career titles. He is among an elite list of Indian players-joining the likes of Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, . And Sania Mirza-who have reached the pinnacle of the sport and support the league.
The TPL will consist of matches between franchises, with four categories. Including Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Mixed Doubles, and Men’s Doubles. Each match shall carry 100 points equally distributed under all four categories. Consequently, the league stage will comprise a total of 500 points for each team in 100 points x 5 matches. The top four teams in the point table go into the semi-finals.
It will also pit him against top players like Sumit Nagal of India, France’s Hugo Gaston. And Elina Avanesyan of Armenia, among others, contesting the top prize at the Cricket Club of India venue which has staged some of the most unforgettable tennis moments of the country.
An excited Bopanna said, “Really happy to be a part of the Tennis Premier League in this exciting new avatar of 25-point format. What better way to end the year? TPL-like events which help in grassroots development will motivate youngsters.”
Additionally, exciting matches and some of the most fantastic talents in tennis will be on full display. Throughout the sixth season of the Tennis Premier League. Thus, fans will have a chance to see both experienced professionals and newcomers who will fight for victory.
ANI
