NEW DELHI: Indian tennis great Leander Paes on Tuesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party, calling it a “big opportunity to serve the youth” as he steps into public life ahead of key elections. The 51-year-old, who remains one of India’s most decorated athletes, was inducted into the party in the presence of Union ministers including Kiren Rijiju.Marking the transition from sport to politics, Paes described the move as a moment of responsibility rather than symbolism. “This party membership slip is not just a slip but a responsibility to serve the nation,” he said, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the opportunity. He added that India’s young population presents a crucial moment to expand sports education and infrastructure, saying he hopes to contribute meaningfully in that space.
Rijiju welcomed the tennis icon’s entry, saying he expects Paes to “play a bigger innings” in politics and boost initiatives such as the Khelo India programme. BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar also backed the move, saying Paes’ appeal among young people could strengthen the party’s outreach, particularly in West Bengal where elections are approaching.Paes’ political journey comes full circle after a brief stint with the Trinamool Congress, which he joined in 2021 and campaigned for during the Goa elections. His switch to the BJP now places him among a growing list of high-profile sportspersons entering politics.On the court, Paes built a career spanning more than three decades, winning 18 Grand Slam titles across men’s and mixed doubles and securing a historic bronze medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. His partnership with Mahesh Bhupathi — dubbed the “Indian Express” — brought global recognition to Indian tennis, while his Davis Cup performances made him a national figure.Reflecting on his journey, Paes said he had “played for the country for 40 years” and now wants to focus on empowering youth through sport, including promoting equal opportunity scholarships for women. His entry into politics signals an attempt to translate sporting legacy into public service, as he prepares for a new and more complex arena beyond the baseline.