'Believe in yourself, work hard, inspire the world': Leander Paes achieves Tennis Hall of Fame, reflects on his journey
"Growing up, as a kid, I used to polish my dad's medal¡Always wanted one of my own," says Indian tennis star Leander Paes.
On July 20, 2024, that childhood dream was surpassed as, after having collected countless medals throughout his illustrious career, Leander Paes made history by becoming the first Asian man¡ªalongside tennis luminary Vijay Amritraj¡ªto be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Speaking at the Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremonies in Newport, Rhode Island, Paes reflected on his journey with deep pride and humility.?
"I was born in June 1973... I grew up in Calcutta, I played street football and street cricket barefoot."
Coming from a family of remarkable athletes, sport was ingrained in his blood.?
Paes's father, Vece Paes, was a key member of the Indian hockey team that won bronze at the 1972 Munich Olympics, while his mother, Jennifer Paes, captained India's 1980 Asian Basketball Championship team.?
The 51-year-old reminisced about his early years playing football and hockey before turning to tennis, ultimately following in his father's footsteps as an Olympic medalist.?
Paes says, "As my father always said to me, if you believe in yourself, you work hard, you'll be passionate not only to win prize money and trophies, but you do that to inspire the world."?
"Playing for 1.4 billion people could either be pressure or it could be wind within your wings," he shared, emphasising the profound impact of representing his nation.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, "I'd like to thank every single one of my countrymen who supported me, who stood by through all the ups and downs. You were the inspiration, the support, and even the strength to guide me through when I didn't believe."
Reflecting on his achievements, Paes proudly declared, "It has been my greatest honor to play for my countrymen in seven Olympics, to stand where the national anthem is playing in all those Davis Cups, and to prove that we Asians can win Grand Slams and also be number one in our field, be it tennis or anything."
Watch Leander Paes's speech here:
Leander Paes's name shines brightly in the world of tennis, celebrated for his exceptional prowess in doubles.
His career highlights include winning a total of 18 Grand Slam titles¡ª8 in men's doubles and 10 in mixed doubles.?
With a remarkable tally of 18 Grand Slam titles¡ª8 in men's doubles and 10 in mixed doubles¡ªPaes has cemented his legacy as a tennis icon.?
His career reached its zenith with a historic triumph at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where he clinched a bronze medal, becoming India's first tennis player to do so.?
This moment not only marked a milestone for Indian sports but also elevated Paes to the ranks of the greatest doubles players ever to grace the court.
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