Rohan Bopanna and Joshna Chinappa among athletes selected for Padma Shri award | More sports News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Tennis ace Rohan Bopanna has been chosen for the prestigious Padma Shri award by the Indian government. Bopanna’s stellar achievements on the court have earned him this recognition, making him the oldest player to attain the top ranking when the new doubles rankings are released on Monday.
The 43-year-old Indian tennis stalwart is on the verge of clinching his first men’s doubles major title at the Australian Open final alongside partner Matthew Ebden on Saturday. Bopanna’s illustrious career includes being the fourth Indian to secure a Grand Slam trophy, achieved in the mixed doubles category at the French Open in 2017 with Canadian partner Gabriela Dabrowski.

Joining Bopanna on the list of Padma Shri awardees is veteran squash player Joshna Chinappa, a 37-year-old athlete with a rich history of accomplishments. Chinappa, a multiple Asian Games medalist and two-time Commonwealth Games medalist, has also earned four medals at the World Championships in doubles, including a gold in 2022.
The esteemed Padma Shri award, the fourth-highest civilian honour in India, recognizes individuals for their outstanding contributions and distinguished service across various fields. Alongside Bopanna and Chinappa, other accomplished athletes chosen for this honour include hockey player Harbinder Singh, Mallakhamb practitioner Uday Deshpande, archer Purima Mahtao, para badminton coach Gaurav Khanna, and para swimmer Satendra Singh Lohia.
(Inputs from PTI)