Rizky Amelia
On August 29, 2026, in Newport, Rhode Island, an emotional Roger Federer stood before a crowd of tennis enthusiasts and fellow legends as he was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The Swiss tennis great, known for his 20 Grand Slam titles and unparalleled skill on the court, was joined by broadcaster and journalist Mary Carillo for an event that celebrated the pinnacle of their careers.
Federer, who has long been a beloved figure in the tennis world, spoke passionately about his love for the sport, often bringing tears to his eyes. "This is one of the greatest honours of my life," he said, reflecting on his storied career. "They call this the Hall of Fame, but fame was never the goal. My goal was to spend my life doing something I love … with people who love it as much as I do."
The 45-year-old Swiss player's journey through the tennis circuit was marked by his record-breaking eight Wimbledon titles, 310 weeks at the world number one ranking, and a total of 103 ATP Tour titles. He captured the hearts of fans with his graceful style and sportsmanship, often referred to as the "Sneak Attack by Roger" on his returns.
Off the court, Federer was celebrated not just for his achievements but for his character as a husband, father, and friend. His induction speech was interspersed with moments of reflection and gratitude, especially towards his coaches, doctors, and family, including his wife Mirka. "Tennis meant the world to me. Not just playing, not just winning, but creating something new," he shared.
Federer's time in the spotlight has come to an end, as he retired in 2022. However, his love for the sport has not waned. "I’m still writing my love letter to tennis, and my time as a player is done, but tennis will always stand at the intersection of everything I care most about," he said. "So this is not a goodbye."
The Swiss legend expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play with different generations of tennis players, from Andre Agassi and Lleyton Hewitt to Andy Roddick, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. He emphasized the importance of the camaraderie among players and the need to keep the amateur spirit alive in the rapidly evolving sport.
Federer's induction was not only a celebration of his career but also a look towards the future of tennis. "We all leave the court eventually, but the sport keeps evolving," he said. "I so hope it will keep some of that amateur spirit. Keep the camaraderie among the players. I hope the players will stay young at heart and stay true to their authentic selves."
The event was attended by tennis giants who came to congratulate Federer, including his long-time rival and friend Novak Djokovic. "What you have achieved, what you have represented, and still represent for the sport of tennis and sport in general is something truly incredible and remarkable," Djokovic said in a video message.
Federer's final return to the court came earlier this week, as he played in a prime-time exhibition match against Andy Roddick at the US Open. The packed Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York was a sea of "RF" logos, a testament to the Swiss star's impact on the sport. "It’s great to be back in New York," Federer said. "I have incredible memories, obviously, of this court, of the fans here, of the city."
The induction of Roger Federer into the International Tennis Hall of Fame marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter for the sport. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of tennis players and fans for years to come.
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