Bopanna, newcomer Sriram Balaji duo to represent India in Paris Olympics

(Photo: X/@OlympicKhel)

New Delhi: In an announcement on Friday, the All India Tennis Association (AITA) has revealed that Rohan Bopanna and N Sriram Balaji will carry India's hopes in the men's doubles tennis event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Joining the formidable pair will be coach Balachandran Manikkath and physiotherapist Rebecca Van Orshaegen, who will ensure the team remains in peak condition and ready to shine on the grand stage.

The men's doubles event at the Paris Olympics will feature 32 elite teams. The initial quotas were awarded to the top 10 doubles players who had partners ranked within the top 300 at the conclusion of the qualification period on Monday.

World No. 4 Rohan Bopanna, a stalwart in the top 10 of the doubles rankings since last November, has effortlessly secured a spot for India.

In a strategic move, Bopanna selected world No. 67 Sriram Balaji as his partner. Balaji, eager and talented, will be making his Olympic debut, bringing fresh energy and determination to the team.

This will be the third Olympic appearance for the 44-year-old Bopanna, who first competed in the London 2012 Games alongside Mahesh Bhupathi, reaching the second round.

With a blend of seasoned experience and youthful vigour, India aims to leave a lasting mark at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The nation watches with bated breath as Bopanna and Balaji prepare to serve up a performance to remember.