Leander Paes, accompanied by his family, embarked on a nostalgic journey through the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island. The museum now houses a collection of Paes’s memorabilia, including his most treasured possession – the bronze medal he won at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Paes, visibly emotional, shared the profound impact the Atlanta victory had on his life, crediting his family for their unwavering support. He recounted his journey, inspired by his father’s Olympic bronze medal in Munich 1972, and how his triumph in Atlanta became a beacon of hope for a generation of Indian athletes, signifying that they too could compete on the world stage. Paes’s emotional connection to the sport, evident in his fiery on-court performances, was also showcased in his heartfelt reflections about Martina Navratilova, his mixed doubles partner and a true inspiration. Their 2003 Wimbledon trophy, a testament to their remarkable partnership, is also on display at the museum. Paes lauded Navratilova’s impact on his life, crediting her for her guidance in various aspects of his athletic journey, from diet and training to recovery methods. He expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside her and win both the Australian Open and Wimbledon. The Wall of Class of 2024, located at the entrance of the museum, now features another Indian tennis legend – Vijay Amritraj. Amritraj, inducted in the contributor category, acknowledged the unwavering support of his parents, who played a pivotal role in his journey in the world of tennis. He expressed his profound sadness at their absence during his induction but recognized their immense contribution to his success. The Hall of Fame, which receives over 30,000 visitors annually, hopes to see a surge in footfall as it celebrates the induction of two of India’s greatest tennis champions, adding a new dimension to the museum’s rich tapestry of sporting history.
Leander Paes and Vijay Amritraj Inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame
