'2020 is going to be an emotional one': Leander Paes to bring curtains down on his illustrious career

After securing hundreds of trophies, including 18 coveted Grand Slam doubles titles, Indian tennis icon Leander Paes announced 2020 will be his farewell season on the Pro-circuit.

Taking to social media, Paes wrote in a statement: “I want to announce 2020 as my farewell year as a pro tennis player.

“I am looking forward to the 2020 tennis calendar where I will be playing a few select tournaments, travelling with my team and celebrating with all my friends and fans around the world,” the statement read further.

“It is all of you who have inspired me to become me and I want to take this year to say “Thank You” to you.” 

The 46-year-old also thanked his parents Dr Vece Paes and Jennifer, both of whom had represented India at the highest level.

#OneLastRoar pic.twitter.com/WwALCVF5LO

— Leander Paes (@Leander) December 25, 2019

“I want to thank my parents for their genetics, guidance, discipline, the environment they created and unconditional love they’ve always shown me throughout my life, I would not be who I am without your unstinting support and belief in me, I love you.” 

Paes even asked fans to use #onelastroar and share their favourite memories of him.

“2020 is going to be an emotional one and I look forward to seeing all of you out there rolling with me. It has been an honour being your lionheart,” he concluded.

The tennis star the most successful doubles player in the history of Davis Cup with 44 wins. He recently dropped out of top-100 for the first time in 19 years.