Spurs looked on course for a vital victory in the relegation battle after Tel fired them ahead early in the second half, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin's penalty rescued a valuable point for Leeds and denied Roberto De Zerbi's side the chance to move further clear of danger.
Leeds arrived with confidence after securing their Premier League status for next season following West Ham United's defeat to Arsenal. Daniel Farke's side started brightly and almost took the lead when Joe Rodon's close-range header forced an excellent save from Antonin Kinsky.
Tottenham gradually settled into the contest and created several chances before the break. Richarlison tested Karl Darlow with a deflected effort, while Pedro Porro saw a dangerous strike blocked by Pascal Struijk. Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur also went close as Spurs increased the pressure.
The breakthrough finally arrived five minutes after half-time. Tel reacted quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the area before curling a superb finish into the top corner beyond Darlow.
Spurs pushed for a second goal and nearly found it when Richarlison volleyed over from close range after good work from Randal Kolo Muani. However, the match turned in the 74th minute when Tel accidentally caught Ethan Ampadu in the face while attempting an overhead clearance inside his own penalty area.
Calvert-Lewin calmly converted from the spot to bring Leeds level and swing momentum towards the visitors.
De Zerbi defended Tel after the final whistle and backed the young forward to learn from the experience.
"I gave him a big hug and a big kiss," De Zerbi said.
"He is a young player and a big talent. He scored a great goal and he made a mistake because he does not yet have the right experience.
"He has not played too many games in his career and we have to accept that."
Leeds nearly stole all three points late on when Sean Longstaff unleashed a powerful strike that Kinsky brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar.
Tottenham responded by introducing James Maddison for his first competitive appearance in more than a year. De Zerbi admitted the midfielder played longer than expected but praised his return.
"He is a different player because of his quality and personality," the Spurs manager said.
"I hope he will be crucial for us. We are very happy for him and I think we are moving in the right way."
Pep Guardiola has said he will make a late decision on the fitness of Rodri and Abdukodir Khusanov ahead of Manchester City's crucial Premier League clash with Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.
Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has backed the idea of a swap deal involving Marcus Rashford and Rafael Leao as uncertainty continues to surround Rashford's long-term future.
Arsenal kept their Premier League title charge on course with a 1-0 victory over West Ham on Sunday, although the result was overshadowed by controversy after West Ham had a late equaliser ruled out.
Chelsea and England defender Levi Colwill feels his team deserved to win against Liverpool following the 1-1 draw at Anfield on Saturday evening.
