Naresh Kumar was born on 22 December 1928 in Lahore, Punjab, British India. Kumar went on to play his first tournament at the Indian International Championships in 1949 where he reached the semi-finals.

In the same year, he reached the finals of the Northern Championships. For eight years starting in 1952, Kumar played on the India Davis Cup team where he later served as captain.

In his career, Kumar won two singles titles at the Irish Championships in 1952 and 1953 and won the men’s single title at the Welsh Championships in 1952. He won the Essex Championships at Frinton-on-sea in 1957 and won the singles title at Wengen tournament in Switzerland in 1958. Winning five singles titles in his career. Kumar played his final tournament at the Asian Championships in 1969.

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi expressed grief over the demise of the noted tennis player..

In a tweet, the Prime Minister said;

“Shri Naresh Kumar will be remembered for his pioneering contribution to Indian sports. He played a major role in popularising tennis. In addition to being a great player he was also an exceptional mentor. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.”

Shri Naresh Kumar will be remembered for his pioneering contribution to Indian sports. He played a major role in popularising tennis. In addition to being a great player he was also an exceptional mentor. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 14, 2022

Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee also mourned Naresh Kumar in a tweet shared on Wednesday.

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Naresh Kumar in Kolkata.

A great tennis player, he will be fondly remembered.

My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. May they find strength in this difficult time.

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) September 14, 2022