The disappointing Indian campaign at Rio Olympics has shocked the nation. With many squads already returning empty hand, for the first time Indian Tennis Mixed Doubles has entered the semifinals. Only second Indians in top 4 at Rio for India, after flag bearer Abhinav Bindra. Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna are the only top 4 seeds to enter Mixed Doubles semifinals. But, that does not guarantee a medal as semifinals where they play against 4 Olympics Gold medal winner Serena Williams on Saturday. But, the duo looks determined for Gold. Wish them luck.
India Tennis Record: Known for Doubles, Only Bronze Won in Singles at Olympics
Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna always wanted to play together unlike the pair of Leander Paes and Roahan Bopanna, which was a forced marriage by All India Tennis Association. The result of Men’s Doubles did not surprise anyone.
This is only the third time that Indian Mixed Doubles Tennis squad is playing at Olympics. Sania Mirza and Leander Paes finished 5th in 2012 Olympics. Earlier, in 1924 Olympics Sydney Jacob reached Round 2 in Mixed Doubles with N. Polley, who was the first female to represent India at Olympics.
Sania Mirza/Rohan Bopanna at Rio 2016
- 1st Round: (Aug 11) Won 2-0 vs Samantha Stosur/John Peers (Aus)
Quarterfinals: (Aug 12) Won 2-0 vs Andy Murray/Heather Watson (GBR)
Semifinals: (Aug 13) vs Venus Williams/Rajeev Ram (USA)
Sania Mirza/Leander Paes at London 2012
- 1st Round: Won 2-0 vs Zimonjić/Ana Ivanovic (Serbia)
Quarterfinals: Lost 0-2 (5-7, 6-7) vs Azarenka/Mirnyi (Belarus)
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