On Saturday, 20th July 2024, Indian tennis legends Leander Paes and Vijay Amritraj have been inducted to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place at the picturesque Horseshoe Court, which is no longer used for tournament play, but a lovely place for ceremonies. Vijay and Leander have been the first Asian men to be inducted to this circle of tennis legends – an outstanding day for Indian tennis.
Report based on the original report by flyctory.com – find more pictures, including the morning brunch, there.
Vijay Amritraj Induction
After introductory speeches by Kim Clijsters, President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and Chris Evert, inductee in the class of 1995, the three new members have been presented and inducted. The first one in that ceremony was Vijay Amritraj, whose honorary speech was held by his son Prakash Amritraj, former Indian Davis Cupper and nowadays well-rewarded as a tennis commentator. He pointed out the special role of his father in his life. He also focused on Vijay being a role model for colored people to become great in the world of sports. Apart from thanking his family, Vijay also pointed out the importance of the sport of bringing people together in peace.
Leander Paes Induction
The induction speech for Leander Paes was held by Tennis Hall of Fame member Martina Navratilova. Apart from listing some of his record, she stated that she loved playing against him, but even more loved playing with him. I think Leander plays tennis the way most of us would like to play. She also praised his contribution to her last major titles and his passion for the sports. Leander received the induction medal from his daughter Aiyana.
During Leander’s speech, the Indian tennis legend found out that he had the wrong medal, so that he received the right one, from Richard Evans. Leander shared the history he has with Vijay Amritraj and Richard Evans, just as he did in the press conference. Leander praised his family, but also the Hall of Famers on site, who have been inspiring role models for him throughout his life. Every single one of these people have shaped the world that we live in. I want to thank you so much for giving this Indian boy hope. He finally emphasized that he wants to use his new role in the Hall of Fame to inspire kids around the world.
Richard Evans Induction
The third man inducted to the Hall of Fame was Richard Evans. The 85 year old British journalist, author and historian has covered more than 200 Grand Slam tournaments as a journalist and also wrote multiple books about the sports, including the Vijay Amritraj biography. He also was honored by his son, who pointed out that his father knows so many stories about the sports – and there are still many more he does not know. Richard Evans explained that he came to tennis by chance. As a young journalist in London, he was assigned to cover a Wimbledon tournament. He also pointed out the great legends of sports. Namely, he for example mentioned Arthur Ashe, Jack Kramer or Ted Tinling. After that speech, Vijay also received his induction medal – something they have missed before.
