Leander Paes has his sights firmly set on the 2016 Olympics in Brazil

Widely regarded as the greatest Indian Tennis player of all time, Leander Paes expresses his views in a candid interview with IBN, ahead of the Chennai Open.

The modest unassuming 14 time Grand Slam winner, played down talk of being called the greatest Indian to have played the game.

He said, “I don’t have a great serve, a great forehand or backhand. I just do things with my partners, whoever it is,”

Along with unbridled success in the Grand Slams, the 40-year old has an Olympic medal and 53 titles on the ATP tour to moot.

The doubles player has his sights firmly set on the next set of Grand Slams due in 2014, and is targeting the 2016 Olympics in Brazil to be his grand finale. Paes is adamant that he will call it a day after thorough consultation, and advice, paving the way for the young raw Indian talent.

“I will consult the right people at the right time on retirement and making way for young talents and at the same time set a solid Indian team. I think you are reading my mind. I’ll come back to you when I take a decision on this,” Paes said.

The marksman commenced his illustrious career in Chennai in the 90′s, where he formed a lethal partnership with fellow Indian – Mahesh Bhupati, and went on to win three consecutive titles, bagging two more in the following years. Paes calls Chennai a home away from home.

Paes said, “This city is sort of home coming for me as I had my basics here from the ages of 12 to 17. I am here because I want to win some more Grand slams and be there for the Olympics. To achieve this, focus is to stay fit and healthy.”

The Kolkota born star will be paired with 18th seeded Fabio Fognini, and had nothing but praise for the Italian.

“He is a fabulous player, he has a big serve and phenomenal baseline game. I am happy to be back again in Chennai where I learnt the ropes. The hard work I put in in my formative years is helping me to this day. Fabio and I are hoping for a good run here this time.” He said.