Roger Federer Speaks Out Ahead of 2026 Tennis Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

On the eve of his formal induction into the Tennis Hall of Fame, Roger Federer reflected back on his legendary career.

Federer told reporters prior to being enshrined in the Hall of Fame on Saturday that retirement has afforded him the chance to think about how he impacted the sport beyond his accomplishments on the court:

"I think when you retire, I think I said it before, that there was a lot of talk also about maybe my personality and what I brought to the game overall when I wasn't on court, which I was a little surprised. I thought it was about, in the moment, forehands and backhands and saving break points and victories and all that stuff. But actually it becomes a little bit, not irrelevant eventually, but it's about what were you remembered for, how did you behave in the locker rooms or in the corridors or maybe with the media, or with the tournament directors, the ball kids."

In the four years since officially retiring from competition, Federer admitted he "dearly" misses playing and that he still hears from fans who tell him how much they wish he was still able to compete.

"For me, if I look back, that's kind of what I'm very happy about, that I went through 25 years on tour, and actually felt like I made a lot of friends and a lot of people miss me," Federer said. "Same with fans. They come up to me and say, 'What a shame you're not playing anymore.' Then I get a flashback saying it was an amazing time, and I say it every time. I loved it, and it's a shame I can't be on the tour anymore. But it was a great, great time and I miss it dearly."

Federer hasn't completely left his playing days behind. He recently returned to the court at Arthur Ashe Stadium for an exhibition match against Andy Roddick.

Federer also teamed up with John McEnroe against Roddick and Andre Agassi.

The 45-year-old won both matches, defeating Roddick 6-3 in the singles competition and a 7-5 win with McEnroe over Roddick and Agassi in the doubles event.

Federer won 103 singles titles during his 24-year playing career, including 20 Grand Slam championships. He also won two Olympic medals, including gold in doubles with Stan Wawrinka at the 2008 Games.

The International Tennis Hall of Fame announced in November 2025 that Federer and journalist/sportscaster Mary Carillo were named to the Hall as part of the Class of 2026.

Federer will formally be enshrined during a ceremony on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. ET.