Vece Paes, Olympic bronze medallist in hockey and father of tennis legend Leander Paes, dies

Vece Paes' last rites will be performed either on Monday or Tuesday, as the family will wait for the arrival of his daughters, who are both settled abroad.

Dr. Paes, who had been battling advanced-stage Parkinson’s disease, was admitted to a city hospital on Tuesday. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian sports history — one that blended elite athletic performance with pioneering contributions to athlete health and sports administration.

Born in Goa in April 1945, Dr. Paes was a key member of the Indian men’s hockey team that won the bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games. A gifted midfielder, he was known for his agility, game sense, and tireless work ethic. His Olympic success placed him among the country’s hockey elite during a time when India was transitioning from its golden era of dominance in the sport.