Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : From Grand Slam to grand politics: Tennis legend Leander Paes joins BJP, vows to boost youth, sports education and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
In a surprising political twist, Olympic medalist and India’s tennis icon Leander Paes officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. The ceremony, attended by Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Sukanta Majumdar, marks Paes’ formal entry into politics ahead of the upcoming elections.
Paes, who previously made his political debut with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2021, expressed excitement and gratitude for his new political platform. “Today is a big day in my life. I want to thank the PM, HM, and Nitin Nabin ji. I am really grateful for the way the BJP has given me this opportunity to serve sports, sports education, and the youth,” he said.
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BJP leaders welcome the sporting icon
Renowned tennis player Leander Paes joins BJP in the presence of senior BJP leaders in New Delhi. #JoinBJP pic.twitter.com/z7LQz3VFC4
— BJP (@BJP4India) March 31, 2026
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, himself a former sports champion, welcomed Paes. “This is a moment to celebrate as the iconic Leander Paes has joined BJP. I clearly foresee that you will play a bigger innings on the BJP platform. Your joining will ensure the Khelo India movement gains further momentum,” Rijiju said.
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Echoing this sentiment, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar praised Paes’ influence in Bengal and his illustrious heritage.
“I welcome Tennis icon Leander Paes to the BJP. He inspires Bengal youth with his Tennis. For the upcoming polls, he will boost our party. Leander Paes is the direct descendant of the renowned 19th-century Bengali poet and dramatist Michael Madhusudan Dutt,” Majumdar remarked.
Focus on youth, sports education, and women’s empowerment
Paes outlined his vision for India’s sports future, emphasising youth development and equality. “I played for the country for 40 years; now it’s time to serve the youth. Khelo India Movement and TOPS scheme are really great. I know with how much passion Kiren Rijiju ji worked towards our contingent’s performance in the Tokyo Olympics. Today, India is the youngest nation in the world. We must focus on sports education for the next 20-25 years,” he said.
He also pointed out the lack of sports infrastructure in India, especially in indoor tennis facilities, and stressed the need for improvement in states like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar.
Paes added, “My dream is to bring a program for equal opportunity scholarships for women empowerment in India. We must inspire and empower youth through sports education.”
A career on and off the court
Leander Paes, still India’s most decorated tennis player, has a glittering record in international tennis. He made India proud with his Olympic medal and Grand Slam victories. His achievements have earned him Arjuna Award (1990), Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (1996-97), Padma Shri (2001), Padma Bhushan (2014).
After joining TMC in Goa in 2021, Paes’ switch to BJP signals a renewed political focus, now coupled with his longstanding passion for sports development and youth empowerment.