Indian tennis legend Leander Paes is playing in his final season. He was runner-up in the men's doubles at the Bengaluru Open ATP Challenger
Bengaluru: Just before the singles final of the Bengaluru Open 2020 on Sunday (February 16), Indian tennis legend Leander Paes, who is on his swan song, played his last ATP event on Indian soil on Saturday (February 15).
Paes was given a rousing farewell at the KSLTA Stadium with former Olympians and sports Internationals felicitating the country’s tennis icon.
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The athletes who felicitated Paes, (who is on his "One Last Roar") began their careers at the same time as him, but had hung their boots while he went on to create a distinguished career spanning over 30 years decorated with many awards.
Joining over a 1,000 people were stars from various sports including Jude Felix, Raghunath Vokkaliga, Arjun Halappa (all hockey), Reshma and Nisha Millet (Swimming), Pramila Aiyappa, Ashwini Nachappa, Reeth Abraham (athletics) and Davis Cupper Prahlad Srinath.
All the athletes regaled the audience, speaking about their experiences with Leander, who was overcome with emotion. “All of you taught me about the passion for sport, dedication and hard work. All of which helps us to achieve success,” said Paes while requesting the audience to give a standing ovation to the former athletes.