Talking about his latest award, he said, "It is a very, very special award for me because getting respected by the people, being recognised by the people, getting the award from the president for 30 years of hard work is something that has been a long road. The journey that has its share of ups and downs but all through it I have put my best foot forward."Paes dedicated the award to his parents, daughter, and to all the fans "who have stood by me thick and thin".