New Delhi: Indian tennis is great leander paes joined on tuesday Bharatiya Janata PartyStepping into public life ahead of major elections, he described it as “a great opportunity to serve the youth”. The 51-year-old, who is one of India’s most celebrated athletes, was inducted into the party in the presence of Union ministers including Kiren Rijiju.Marking the transition from sports to politics, Paes described the move as a moment of responsibility rather than symbolism. Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the opportunity, he said, “This party membership slip is not just a slip, but a responsibility to serve the country.” India’s youth population presents a crucial moment for the expansion of sports education and infrastructure, he said, adding that he looks forward to making meaningful contributions in that area.Rijiju welcomed the tennis icon’s entry, saying he hoped Paes would “play a big innings” in politics and promote initiatives like the Khelo India programme. BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar also supported the move, saying that Paes’ appeal among the youth could strengthen the party’s reach, especially in West Bengal where elections are approaching.Paes’ political journey is complete after a brief stint with the Trinamool Congress, which he joined in 2021 and campaigned during the Goa elections. His move to BJP now places him in the growing list of high-profile players entering politics.On the court, Paes had a career spanning over three decades, winning 18 Grand Slam titles in men’s and mixed doubles and a historic bronze medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. His partnership with Mahesh Bhupathi – dubbed the “Indian Express” – brought global recognition to Indian tennis, while his Davis Cup performances made him a national celebrity.Reflecting on her journey, Paes said she “played for the country for 40 years” and now wants to focus on empowering youth through sport, including promoting equal opportunity scholarships for women. His entry into politics signals an attempt to transform his sporting legacy into public service, as he prepares for a new and more complex arena beyond the baseline.