Dr. Vece Paes, 1972 Olympic hockey bronze medallist and father of tennis legend Leander Paes, passed away at 3 a.m. today. A sporting icon and respected physician, he leaves behind a powerful legacy.
A Life of Sporting Excellence and Enduring Inspiration
We mourn the passing of Dr. Vece Paes, the Olympic bronze-medallist and pioneering sports medicine doctor, who left us this morning around 3 a.m. in Kolkata, India. He was 80 years old.
Born on 30 April 1945 in Goa, Dr. Paes rose to prominence as a midfielder on India’s field hockey team during its golden era. His athletic prowess shone brightest at the 1972 Munich Olympics, where he helped India secure the bronze medal in hockey.
Beyond the Field: Service, Healing, Legacy
After his sporting prime, Dr. Paes seamlessly transitioned into sports medicine, becoming a respected physician who served as a consultant to notable bodies including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Asian Cricket Council, and held leadership roles in sports administration Deccan Herald. His tenure as president of the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club and involvement with the Indian Rugby Football Union further reinforced his commitment to Indian sport https://www.oneindia.com/+1.
A Legacy Woven Through Generations
Perhaps one of the most moving aspects of Dr. Paes’s life is the legacy he nurtured in his family. He is the father of Leander Paes, the legendary tennis player and one of India’s most decorated athletes. Together, they formed a rare and extraordinary father-son duo—both Olympians who achieved global acclaim in different sports The Times of India+14.
Final Moments and Tributes
Dr. Paes had been bravely battling advanced Parkinson’s disease, and was receiving care at home in Kolkata https://www.oneindia.com/. Tragically, he passed away peacefully at around 3 a.m. on Thursday, 14 August 2025 Onmanorama.
The sports fraternity across India has expressed deep sorrow at his passing, recognizing him as a stalwart figure in both field hockey and sports medicine . The family has announced that his final rites will be performed in the coming days, awaiting the return of his daughters from abroad NDTV Sports+1.
Tribute to a Remarkable Life
Dr. Vece Paes was far more than an athlete or a doctor—he symbolized excellence, humility, and service. His ability to embody both sporting pride and compassionate healing made him a beloved and respected figure. In the annals of Indian sport, his name will forever be inscribed alongside those who not only excelled in their own right but paved the way for future generations.
He leaves behind not only a powerful athletic legacy but also a legacy of integrity, dedication, and love—for sport, for family, and for the many lives he touched.
May he rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire.
