MARGAO
The Goan sports community celebrated a historic achievement as former doubles world number one Leander Paes and tennis icon Vijay Amritraj were inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
They became the first Asian men to receive this honour recently in the enshrinement ceremonies held at the Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island.
"Leander Paes traces his roots to the historic village of Assolna in Goa. I am extremely happy and proud of his achievements," said Dr Levinson Martins, Labour Commissioner and former deputy sarpanch of Village Panchayat of Assolna. "His father, Dr Vece Paes, hails from this village, and his grandfather, Dr Pedro Paes, was a practising doctor here. His grandmother, the late Marlaque D Costa, was from Tolecanto Velim."
Elvis Gomes, former president of the Goa Football Association, also commented on the honour.
“It’s a moment of immense pride for India. Leander Paes and Vijay Amritraj have achieved legendary status with their induction into the Tennis Hall of Fame. Their dedication to the sport and their emotional tribute to the country in the presence of tennis legends and family highlights their deep connection to India.
"This achievement should serve as a reminder of unity and pride in the face of divisive elements in our society. Although Leander was born and raised in Kolkata, his Goan heritage adds an extra layer of significance to this honor for us Goans,” Gomes said.
