India's history-maker Rohan Bopanna became the oldest number one in men's doubles history by winning the Australian Open with his partner Matthew Ebden in Melbourne on Saturday. The second seeds registered a 7-6 (7/0), 7-5 victory over unseeded Italian pair of Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori at the Rod Laver Arena. It was their maiden title as a team and Bopanna's first in men's doubles after 60 previous Grand Slams -- a record for most attempts before winning. The victory also saw Bopanna becoming the oldest-ever man to win a Grand Slam title.
"A couple of years ago I said in a video message, I am going to call it a day because I was not winning matches. I went five months without winning a match. I thought that was the end of my journey but my perseverance, and (something) inside me kept me going," Bopanna said after his triumph as quoted by PTI.
"It really changed so many things, I got a wonderful partner to get me to all the laurels," he added.
Bopanna is already assured of becoming the new number one on Monday when the ATP rankings will be updated. At 43, he will be the oldest player to be perched on top of the ranking pile.
Bopanna acknowledged the contribution of his Australian partner Ebden and his American coach Scott Davidoff in his success story.
"It was not possible, if I had not this fantastic Aussie partner by my side, so thanks to Matty. We had a fantastic season last year and for me to win my first men's Grand Slam men's doubles Grand Slam here at the Asia-Pacific is special.
"Tennis is such a great teacher and Scott has been a great teacher who has been with me for over a decade. It was a tough, tough journey, this victory is as much yours as much it is mine," Bopanna said.
On a lighter note, he said, "I have my in-laws here. The last time they came I won my first mixed doubles. I don't know why they do not come more often."
Ebden, who had won men's doubles, too, praised the Indian.
"Age truly really is not even a number for this guy. He is a champion, he is a warrior, I am forever grateful to you and your amazing team, thank you mate!," said Ebden.
(With PTI Inputs)