Kolkata: Dr. Vece Paes, a member of India’s bronze medal-winning men’s hockey team at the 1972 Munich Olympics and father of tennis legend Leander Paes, passed away here on Thursday morning at the age of 80 due to age-related ailments. He had been battling Parkinson’s disease and was admitted to Woodlands Hospital on Tuesday.
His last rites will be held on Monday or Tuesday after the arrival of his daughters from abroad. Dr. Paes was married to Jennifer, former captain of the Indian women’s basketball team.
Born in April 1945 in Goa, Paes was a gifted sportsman and scholar. A midfielder in the national hockey team, he also excelled in football, cricket, and rugby, serving as president of the Indian Rugby Football Union from 1996 to 2002. He was part of the Indian squad that won bronze at the 1971 World Cup in Barcelona, but the Munich Olympic medal was the crowning moment of his playing career—a Games also marked by the tragic killing of 11 Israeli athletes.
Following his hockey career, Paes became a respected sports medicine doctor, working with the Asian Cricket Council, BCCI, and Indian Davis Cup team. He also served as the Davis Cup team doctor for a decade and managed his son Leander, whose tennis journey began at his father’s encouragement.
Leander went on to become India’s most decorated tennis player, winning 18 Grand Slam titles and a singles bronze at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, continuing the family’s Olympic medal legacy. He was later inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the first Asian male to receive the honour.
Paying tribute, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said, “Dr. Paes’ passing marks the end of a glorious era in Indian hockey. The Munich Olympic medal reflects his grit and dedication. He was deeply passionate about fostering a sporting culture in India. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jennifer, Leander, and the family.”
In addition to representing India, Paes played hockey for Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting, worked with East Bengal’s football team, and contributed to the careers of players like Bhaichung Bhutia. He was also a prominent voice in Kolkata’s Anglo-Indian community.
