In a career spanning 24 years, Leander Paes has smashed his way to success with 18 Grand Slam titles (8 doubles and 10 mixed doubles). Notably, he is the first Indian and the only player to compete at 7 Olympic Games. He is considered as one of the prolific doubles players in the history of the sport. He is an ageless wonder and here we bring to you his best performances in his career.
A B I G #HappyBirthday shoutout to the legend!🎾🇮🇳
29 years. 1 Olympic Bronze medal. 7-time Olympian. 18 Grand Slam titles. Record 45 Davis Cup Doubles wins.Happy birthday @Leander dada🍰🥳🎈 pic.twitter.com/RxwItUPVza
— NOC India (@WeAreTeamIndia) June 17, 2020
Junior Wimbledon Title
In 1991, Paes won the Junior Wimbledon title and became the top-ranked junior tennis player. This was the moment when his brilliance was noticed all around the World.
Atlanta Olympics Bronze Medal
In 1996 at the Atlanta Olympics, Paes beat Fernando Meligeni to win a bronze medal. He thereby became the first Indian to win an Olympic medal since KD Jadhav, who won a bronze at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
This was the first medal for India in 16 years. His performance was such that even Andre Agassi mentioned him in his book.
Wimbledon and French Open
In 1999, the duo of Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes reached the finals of all four Grand Slams, winning Wimbledon and French Open. They became the first Indians to win a doubles event at a Grand Slam. The duo also became the number 1 ranked doubles team in the World. Paes also won the mixed doubles event with his partner, Lisa Raymond.
Career Grand Slam in men’s doubles
In 2012, Paes partnered with Radek Stepanek and the duo won the Australian Open title. They beat the 1st,2nd, and 3rd seed to claim the title. This win was special for Paes as he won his career slam in men’s doubles.
Career Grand Slam in mixed doubles
In 2016, Paes completed his career Grand Slam in mixed doubles by winning the 2016 French Open with Martina Hingis. The duo won all the Grand Slam titles together.
Paes also holds the record for beating Andre Agassi and Roger Federer in men’s singles. For his immense contribution to the sport, he has been conferred with all the prestigious awards. The legend recently announced his retirement and 2020 will be his farewell season in International Circuit.
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