Childhood
Leander Adrian Paes, the famous Indian Tennis player was born in Kolkata (Calcutta) on June 17, 1973. His father’s name was Vece Paes and mother was Jennifer Paes. Both of his parents were sports persons.
Education and Early life
He studied at la Martiniere School and St. Xavier’s college in kolkata. Later he was enrolled in Britannia Amritraj Tennis Academy in Chennai. Leander was coached by Dave O’Meara.
He is the direct descendant of the great Bengali poet Michael Madhusudan Dutta (19th century) through his mother. He had a live- in relationship with Rhea Pillai in the year 2005. Paes has a daughter named Aiyana.
Career
At present he is the sport ambassador of the state Haryana. He plays in World Team Tennis for the Washington Kastles. In 2010 he joined the Board of Directors of Olympic Gold Quest. Besides, he also acted in the film Rajdhani Express, a socio – political thriller by Ashok Kohli.
Professional Career
Leander Paes began his Davis Cup career at the age of 19 in 1990. He partnered Zeeshan Ali in doubles and won against the Japanese team. He is one of the top Davis cup players with a record of 89 -32 overall (July 2015).
He played a vital role in the Indian Davis cup team. The team reached the World Group (1991-1998). Leander was part of the Indian Davis Cup team which reached the semi finals of the 1993 Davis Cup. The team won against Switzerland and France. So far playing style is concerned he is considered as one of the best volleyers and a very talented dropshotter. He learnt the volleying techniques from former Indian player Akhtar Ali.
Life Achievements and Awards
- Leander Paes won eight doubles Grand Slam titles.
- Paes became the oldest grand slam title winner.
- He won the mixed doubles Wimbledon title 2010.
- He won Rajiv khel Ratna (1996-97).
- He received Arjuna Award in the year 1990.
- He received Padma Shri in 2001.
- He received Padma Bhusan in 2014.
- He won Bronze Medal in Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996.
- Leander Paes had 42 victories in Davis Cup doubles.
- In 1990 Leander Paes won Wimbledon junior title.
- Leander won Malaysian Open men’s doubles with Marcin Matkowski in 2014.
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