Most newspapers on Sunday were excited when Leander Paes won the men's doubles title in the Australian Open. This was Leander's first Australian Open title and 7th men's doubles grand slam trophy. He has also won the mixed doubles twice. Now add to that, the fact that he won the bronze medal in the Olympics in 1996 in Atlanta and you have an athlete who has been a superstar in the international stage.
Leander, above all, is a wonderful human being who appreciates every bit of support he gets from a small fan following in India. Love for representing India in the Davis Cup, propelled him to some great singles victories, including a come-back-from-behind win over Goran Ivanesavic. According to the ATP website, his career prize-money earnings are about $6 million, a small amount considering the fact that the Calcuttan has been playing since the early-1990s.
Leander doesn't get the kind of media exposure, sponsorship, adoration or adulation that he deserves, despite being one of the greatest sportsmen India had ever produced. But the real sports fans in India and around the world put him where he rightfully belongs: on the highest of pedestals.
Leander, above all, is a wonderful human being who appreciates every bit of support he gets from a small fan following in India. Love for representing India in the Davis Cup, propelled him to some great singles victories, including a come-back-from-behind win over Goran Ivanesavic. According to the ATP website, his career prize-money earnings are about $6 million, a small amount considering the fact that the Calcuttan has been playing since the early-1990s.
Leander doesn't get the kind of media exposure, sponsorship, adoration or adulation that he deserves, despite being one of the greatest sportsmen India had ever produced. But the real sports fans in India and around the world put him where he rightfully belongs: on the highest of pedestals.
let us encourage our Talented peoples
ReplyDeletePlease join the Cause on UNSUNG HEROES OF INDIA on Facebook and share information about all such unnoticed players (other than Cricketers).
ReplyDeleteThese players deserve respect and good facilities. Let's give our share.