"Playing with Martina for many many years, I have learnt a lot. She is obviously a big inspiration for me to continue to remodel my game and stay healthy. I have also learnt how to live a clean lifestyle and be productive towards my tennis," Paes told reporters on his return after winning the men's doubles trophy at the US Open.
Paes and Navratilova together won two Grand Slam titles, besides finishing runners-up on two other occasions.
Enduring a tough season this year, Paes was determined to excel at the last Grand Slam of the year.
"I had no idea that I was the first person in the Open era to win a grand slam at 40. What I did know was that this whole year had been such a rough one - both on and off the court. It has been a very hard year. Coming into American summer, I knew I had to do really well.