Watch tennis legend Roger Federer deliver a rousing Hall of Fame induction speech

Roger Federer delivered an emotional speech during his Hall of Fame induction, with the tennis legend fighting back tears as he reflected on the people who helped shape his remarkable career.

Federer, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, used the moment to highlight the role his family played throughout his journey. The 20-time Grand Slam champion became particularly emotional when speaking about his wife, Mirka Federer.

“I need tissues and sunglasses. I need everything to protect me right now,” Federer said during his speech.

There’s no one quite like Roger

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Federer then turned his attention to Mirka, whom he credited with being far more than just his wife throughout his career.

“As you know, Mirka’s my wife. Duh. Which is the greatest understatement I can make, because she’s also been my coach, my hitting partner before matches, and my reality check,” he said.

The Swiss icon also jokingly called Mirka his stylist, admitting that he “definitely needed one at the time.”

Behind the humor, however, Federer offered a heartfelt look at how much his wife meant to both his career and his life away from the court.

Federer said Mirka helped him become more focused on tennis while also teaching him to find joy outside of the sport. He also praised her as a mother to their four children and emphasized how the family navigated the demands of his professional career together.

“She and I grab each other’s hands, and we run through walls,” he said.

Federer’s induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame adds another milestone to a career that already includes 20 Grand Slam singles titles, 103 ATP singles titles and 310 weeks ranked No. 1 in the world.

The 42-year-old retired from professional tennis in 2022, closing the chapter on a career defined by his elegant playing style, longevity and fierce rivalry with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

While Federer’s achievements on the court have cemented his place among tennis’ all-time greats, his Hall of Fame speech offered a reminder that his journey was never his alone.

After thanking Mirka for everything she contributed to his career and family, Federer summed up what his wife and loved ones ultimately mean to him. “She’s all of these things, and that’s my hall of fame,” he said.