'True sports icon': Indian sporting fraternity mourns as legendary Vece Paes passes away at 80

Legendary hockey player and sports medicine expert, Dr Vece Paes, who was also the father of tennis great Leander Paes, passed away on Thursday in Kolkata at the age of 80. The senior Paes was suffering from advanced stages of Parkinson's disease and was admitted to a hospital in Kolkata on Tuesday.

As a versatile midfielder of the Indian men's hockey team, Vece Paes won the bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics. But his impact on the Indian sporting ecosystem was bigger than an Olympic medal.

He also competed in cricket, football and rugby, later serving as the president of the Indian Rugby Football Union from 1996 to 2002.

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Beyond his playing career, as a professional in sports medicine, Vece Paes worked as a medical consultant for several esteemed sports bodies such as the Asian Cricket Council, the Board of Control for Cricket in India, and the Indian Davis Cup team, and individual athletes.

Sports fraternity pays tribute to Vece Paes

As the news of his tragic demise made its way to social media, tributes poured in from major sporting organisations and personalities. Hockey India paid a rich tribute to Dr Paes, calling him a "true sports icon."

"Dr. Vece Paes, a true sports icon, sadly passed away this morning. His achievements on and off the field inspired generations. As a member of the 1972 Munich Olympics bronze-winning team, he made India proud. His legacy will live on," HI said on X.

Former Indian men's hockey team captain, Viren Rasquinha, paid his tributes by calling him an "incredible human being."

"Very sad to hear of the passing of Dr. Vece Paes. He was a midfielder with the 🇮🇳 🏑 team that won the bronze medal at 1972 Munich Olympics. An amazing Sports Physician, he was team doctor when I played at Athens 2004. Incredible human being. RIP Doc. Thank you for everything"

Former Indian tennis player Vishal Uppal called him an icon who "selflessly" served India.

Thank you for everything Dearest Uncle Vece Paes. You will be missed a lot! Rest in peace. India has lost a sporting icon who served selflessly on & off the field. Hope the universe gives you strength & peace my brother @Leander aunty Julie & the whole family! #legend"