Tennis

The Tennis Premier League (TPL), a revolutionary tennis tournament, is set to host its sixth edition in Mumbai, India, in December. Among the star-studded lineup is former World Number 1 Rohan Bopanna, making his TPL debut.Bopanna, currently ranked sixth in men's doubles, is one of India's most celebrated tennis players. With two Grand Slam titles (Australian Open 2024 in men's doubles and French Open 2017 in mixed doubles) and three Olympic appearances, he holds the record for being the oldest player to become World No. 1.The TPL's unique 25-point format aims to revolutionize tennis. Each match between two franchises consists of men's singles, women's singles, mixed doubles, and men's doubles, with each category worth 25 points. The top four teams from the league stage qualify for the semi-finals.Bopanna's experience and skills will be invaluable to his team. He joins a roster that includes Sumit Nagal, Hugo Gaston, and Elina Avanesyan, all vying for the top prize at the iconic Cricket Club of India."I'm thrilled to be part of the Tennis Premier League, especially with its innovative 25-point format," said Bopanna. "Tournaments like the TPL inspire young players and contribute to grassroots development."Kunal Thakkur, Co-Founder of TPL, expressed his excitement about Bopanna's participation. "His presence will not only boost the sixth season of TPL but also motivate the other players," he said.Mrunal Jain, Co-Founder of TPL, added, "Rohan Bopanna is an icon of Indian tennis, and we are delighted to have him play in Season 6. We anticipate some exceptional matches with Rohan and the rest of the players."The TPL's innovative format and star-studded lineup promise an unforgettable tennis experience for fans in Mumbai and beyond.

Fifty years ago, the tennis world witnessed a pivotal moment at Roland Garros. Bjorn Borg and Chris Evert, two young prodigies, emerged victorious in their first Grand Slam tournaments, forever etching their names in the annals of the sport.Borg's triumph marked a paradigm shift in tennis. His two-handed backhand, a technique previously considered taboo, proved to be a formidable weapon. It allowed him to counter net-rushers effectively and drive the ball with unprecedented power and depth. Evert, known for her exceptional consistency and baseline accuracy, also relied on a two-handed backhand. Her ability to control rallies and outlast opponents made her a formidable force.The ascent of Borg and Evert coincided with the rise of the two-handed backhand as a dominant force in tennis. This technique revolutionized the game, rewarding defensive players and expanding the dimensions of the court.Beyond their technical prowess, Borg and Evert embodied the qualities of sportsmanship and professionalism. They set a high standard of conduct at a time when the sport was often marred by controversy. Their poise and determination inspired countless young players and helped elevate tennis to a new level of respectability.Today, the legacies of Borg and Evert continue to resonate. Their impact on the game is evident in the countless players who have adopted the two-handed backhand and the emphasis on fitness and mental toughness. Their contributions to tennis have left an enduring mark on the sport, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.

In 1974, the tennis world witnessed a quiet revolution at Roland Garros. Two teenage prodigies, Chris Evert and Bjorn Borg, emerged victorious, forever altering the trajectory of the sport.Evert, known as the "Ice Maiden," and Borg, dubbed "Ice Borg," were both products of the Open era, which had opened up tennis to professionals. They possessed a unique blend of consistency, defense, and unorthodox playing styles. Evert's two-handed backhand and Borg's flicky forehand and two-handed backhand defied the norms of the time.Their rise to prominence was not without its challenges. Evert had lost two Slam finals in 1973, while Borg had yet to reach a major semifinal. However, their determination and unwavering focus propelled them to the top.At Roland Garros, Evert and Borg faced off against Olga Morozova and Manuel Orantes, respectively. Evert's victory was a display of efficiency, while Borg's triumph was a testament to his resilience. After dropping the first two sets, Borg rallied back to win the next three with ease.Their victories marked a turning point in tennis. The baseline game they pioneered gradually replaced serve-and-volley as the dominant strategy. Their two-handed backhands also became the norm, with Roger Federer's retirement solidifying its supremacy.Beyond their playing styles, Evert and Borg were also pioneers in the realm of celebrity. Their mass appeal and fan following set the stage for the modern era of tennis stardom.Fifty years later, the legacy of Evert and Borg continues to shape the sport. Their quiet revolution transformed tennis from a game of aggression to one of consistency and defense. Their influence is evident in the playing styles of today's top players and the enduring popularity of the sport.