He is the Indian tennis star who won a Career Grand Slam and retired aged 47

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Tennis may be one of the biggest sports in the world, but there are many countries that do not boast a rich history associated with it.

However, over the last few decades, that has certainly been shifting.

Now, nations that previously had never even considered following tennis have been handed new homegrown stars to cheer for, thus provoking a huge influx of intrigue into the sport.

The Philippines has one such example, with Alexandra Eala’s impressive 2025 campaign boosting interest tenfold.

However, arguably the most influential and pioneering individual from that area of the world actually came from India: Leander Paes.

Leander Paes: the greatest tennis player in India’s history

Paes may not have the singles Grand Slam title that Chinese superstar Li Na boasted, or the consistent quality at the top of the game like Japan’s Kei Nishikori did, but what he did for tennis in India was huge.

Despite only winning one singles title, his influence was far greater for what he accomplished on the doubles circuit.

There, the 52-year-old won 18 Grand Slam titles as well as an Olympic bronze medal, all while playing well into his 40s.

In fact, Paes only retired five years ago in 2020, aged 47, having twice completed the Career Grand Slam.

He is also the most decorated male tennis player in Asian Games history, as if his trophy cabinet were not full enough.

What happened when Leander Paes played Rafael Nadal in 2004 US Open doubles semi-finals

Unsurprisingly, across his sprawling career that spanned over two decades, Paes came up against some of the very best players the world has ever seen.

And, in 2004, he actually faced Rafael Nadal in a Grand Slam semi-final.

Whilst the Spaniard was only just really breaking through, having won his maiden major title at Roland Garros earlier that year, it still marked a huge occasion for the Indian superstar.

In the end, it marked a routine win for Paes and his partner David Rikl, who beat a teenage Nadal 6-3, 6-3, playing alongside Tommy Robredo.