11 at 36, what's next Lee?

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It's not about numbers. It can't be, for you can't measure a man's stomach for a fight. Least of all a man who goes by the name of Leander Paes.

In an interview in 2006, barely a week after a Davis Cup tie, a senior tennis journalist asked him how many body parts weren't complaining. He reportedly answered with a laugh, "only the heart".

It's that heart that keeps Leander going at an age where most tennis players retire. At a time when their bodies and their minds cannot take it anymore, Leander continues to amaze the tennis fraternity and fans by pulling off big wins regularly.

The Australian Open mixed doubles crown on Sunday was his 11th Grand Slam win in 12 years. This was his fifth mixed doubles Grand Slam title. He's won six men's doubles Grand Slam titles and countless Davis Cup matches. But can you put a figure on his desire? No!

And his desire, as he himself conceded once, is to better his Atlanta Olympics bronze.

The one moment that made us feel empowered as a nation.

The one moment that showed we belonged to the league.

The one moment that inspired a generation.

I had cried then. And there's no doubt if he betters it, I will cry again. But I will cry the most if he leads India to a Davis Cup title. Eleven in twelve, 11 at 36 - the heart just goes on.

Leander Paes, ageless at 36. Matchless forever!