The only Indian tennis player to win an Olympic medal is Leander Paes. Paes achieved this historic feat at the 1996 Atlanta Games, where he won the bronze medal in men’s singles. At the age of 23, Paes surprised the tennis world by defeating several higher-ranked players on his way to the podium. His victory marked India’s first and only tennis medal at the Olympics to date.
Paes’ journey at the 1996 Olympics included notable wins over seeded players like Richey Reneberg and Thomas Enqvist. In the bronze medal match, he faced Fernando Meligeni of Brazil, coming back from a set down to win 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 and secure the historic bronze medal for India.
This achievement remains a significant milestone in Indian tennis history, showcasing Paes’ talent and determination on the global stage.
