Ahmedabad, Dec 13 — Two of India’s most celebrated tennis players, Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi, were on display together on the fourth day of the Tennis Premier League, sparking a buzz among fans. Paes showed up in his capacity as brand ambassador for the GS Delhi Aces, while Bhupathi came to cheer on the SG Pipers Bengaluru squad.
The veteran duo, who once dominated the court as a pair—winning three Grand Slam titles and reaching world No. 1 together—have long been advocates for the league and were delighted to host the event in Ahmedabad this season.
Paes shared his enthusiasm, saying,
“It’s wonderful to be in Ahmedabad. The weather is fantastic to start with, and to see the extravagance of the Tennis Premier League here is part of a dream to expand and popularise tennis throughout the country.”
He continued, “I am very grateful to Sania, Rohan, Mahesh, and all the stars who support the league. When you look at the players, we have managed to bring together juniors, professionals, boys and girls, and add an international flavour. To have the entire fraternity of tennis come together here is special.”
The match saw SG Pipers Bengaluru edge the GS Delhi Aces 51‑49 in the third game of the day. While reflecting on the night’s contests, Paes remarked, “Tonight I played against Rohan and Mahesh’s team. Mahesh was up against Sanya’s team earlier. These competitive rivalries are what make sport such a unifier.”
The Aces sit atop the points table with 211 points. Paes praised the current season, describing it as “going great” and admitted he couldn’t help but feel a bit biased for his own squad, though he noted there’s still plenty of tennis to come and the format keeps interest alive.
He also spoke about his long relationship with the Delhi‑based club, adding, “To play for your people for 40 years, to win 20 Grand Slam titles and compete in 7 Olympics are blessings. Now, mentoring kids and building leagues like this so they can earn, compete and grow against the best in the world keeps me inspired.”
Reflecting on the league’s evolution, the 18‑time Grand Slam champion highlighted how the tournament is now in its seventh consecutive season and hinted at ambitious plans for global expansion. “We can take it global in the future, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Singapore, bring in bigger sponsors and wider visibility,” he said.
Yet he remained proud to promote the sport within the country. “But for a patriot like me, doing this in India gives me joy. One year in Mumbai, then Pune, now Ahmedabad, the aim is simple. Take the sport to every young fan watching,” Paes concluded.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
