‘Oh my God, it’s such a mess’: Roger Federer breaks down during Hall of Fame speech – Watch

Roger Federer fights back tears during the induction ceremony for the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, in Newport, RI (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) Roger Federer lit up several times during his induction speech at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport on Saturday, reflecting on his career, his family and the people who have helped him along the way.The 45-year-old Swiss great, who has won 20 Grand Slam singles titles, was inducted alongside former player and broadcaster Mary Carillo.Federer was introduced by his wife Mirka and admitted that it would be difficult to watch her speech.“Oh lord,” were the first words from the first man to ever win 20 Grand Slam singles titles. “This is a very high level and difficult to follow.He later joked, “I don’t know if you’ve been working out in secret,” before praising Mirka.During his nearly thirty-minute speech, Federer beamed at the memory of his childhood hero Stefan Edberg, long-time coach Severin Luthi, and especially Mirka.Watch:“Now the Mirka part,” he said, pausing before breaking into tears. “Oh god, this is such a mess.As Federer struggled to regain his composure, he told the crowd: “I need tissues and sunglasses, anything to protect me right now.”

A career full of historic achievements

Federer ended his speech by thanking the ball boys and encouraging future players to continue moving tennis forward. His remarkable career included eight Wimbledon titles, six Australian Opens and one French Open, making him one of only eight men to complete a career Grand Slam.“I’m excited to go here,” he said. “It’s amazing to see myself in a place like this. To immerse myself in the history of this sport means a lot to me.”Carillo, who was listed as a contributor, was also deeply moved by the honor.King said: “She has earned her place in sports journalism and earned her place in Newport.”Carillo added, “Walking through these gates here in the company of you people was beyond my dreams.”

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