Every time his career has been written off, Leander Paes has risen like a phoenix. But on New Year’s day, the 43-year old gave his most definitive hint yet that the next few months could be his last as a professional tennis player.
“At 43, I am blessed to be able to compete at this level. I have to thank my whole team. I have a few new people on my team who are going to help me in the last few months of my playing career and my post-tennis career. I think it is the right time now to transcend and do something bigger.
“I would love to create a big winner. That’s the dream I have now more than going out and playing an eighth Olympics or trying to win 20 Grand Slams.”
Fighting tears, he added, “It has been a fun run.”
Motivating factor...
When asked what still kept him motivated, Paes said, “I have been really looking forward to finding one thing that motivates me. In 2017, I am playing for a few things. I play to motivate the youngsters all around the world. I live my life to show every human being on the planet that regardless of age, you can be the best you can be. That’s what I play for.”
Paes might have chosen to look ‘beyond records’, but against New Zealand in the Davis Cup tie in Pune, he will have a chance to break Nicola Pietrangeli’s record of 42 doubles wins in the competition.
That will also be his last assignment under captain Anand Amritraj before his former partner Mahesh Bhupathi takes over.
“With the credentials that he [Mahesh] has, he deserves his spot there. I think, in the doubles game, he brings in a lot in terms of communication and technical skills.
“Mahesh and myself have played together for so many years. So I think in the game of doubles he will add.”
