Is TPL Part of a Vision to Broaden Tennis? Leander Paes Thinks So!
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Leander Paes emphasizes the importance of promoting tennis in India.
- The Tennis Premier League brings together players of all ages and backgrounds.
- Success in the league could lead to international expansion.
- Paes expresses gratitude for the support from fellow tennis stars.
- The league serves as a platform for young talent to shine.
Ahmedabad, Dec 13 (NationPress) Renowned Indian tennis players Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi showcased their enthusiasm on the fourth day of the Tennis Premier League. Paes represented the GS Delhi Aces as their Brand Ambassador, while Bhupathi supported the SG Pipers Bengaluru.
The legendary duo, who secured three Grand Slam titles together and achieved the World No. 1 ranking as a pair, have been staunch advocates of the league, attending the fourth day of its seventh season.
Expressing his excitement, Paes remarked, “It's amazing to be in Ahmedabad. The weather is perfect, and witnessing the magnificence of the Tennis Premier League here is part of a vision to grow and popularize tennis across the nation.”
“I am incredibly thankful to Sania, Rohan, Mahesh, and all the stars who back the league. We have successfully united juniors, professionals, both boys and girls, and infused an international flair. Bringing together the entire tennis community here is truly special,” he stated.
In a nail-biting match, SG Pipers Bengaluru narrowly triumphed over the GS Delhi Aces with a score of 49-51.
Reflecting on the evening's contests, Paes mentioned, “Tonight, I faced off against Rohan and Mahesh's team. Mahesh competed against Sanya’s team earlier. These competitive rivalries make sports a true unifier.”
Currently, the GS Delhi Aces lead the points table with 211 points. Discussing the ongoing season and his team’s performance, he stated, “The season is going exceptionally well. I must admit I am a bit biased towards my team. The Delhi Aces are leading, but there’s still plenty of tennis to be played. The format here is quite intriguing.”
Paes also elaborated on his role with the Delhi-based team, saying, “Playing for my people for four decades, winning 20 Grand Slams, and competing in 7 Olympics are incredible blessings. Now, mentoring young talent and establishing leagues like this enables them to earn, compete, and grow alongside the best in the world keeps me motivated.”
Highlighting the league's evolution, the 18-time Grand Slam champion shared, “We are proud to be in our seventh consecutive season of the Tennis Premier League. We have aspirations to take it global in the future, with locations like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Singapore, attracting larger sponsors and expanding visibility.”
“However, for a patriot like me, doing this in India brings immense joy. After a year in Mumbai, then Pune, and now Ahmedabad, our goal is straightforward: to bring the sport to every young fan watching,” he concluded.