NEWPORT, R.I. — Roger Federer, widely regarded as one of tennis’s all-time greats, was formally inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on a late summer evening in Newport, Rhode Island, four years after retiring from professional play. Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam singles champion, was honored alongside Mary Carillo, a former player turned prominent broadcaster and journalist, during the ceremony that attracted over 5,000 attendees.

The event took place on the historic grass courts of Newport, often cited as the birthplace of American tennis. Federer appeared in a tan suit with a white shirt and blue tie, reflecting the traditional style of the occasion. His induction marked a celebration not only of his remarkable career but of his lasting impact on the sport’s history.

Before Federer’s turn, Mary Carillo received recognition as the Hall of Fame’s 273rd member. Carillo, whose playing career ended prematurely due to injury, is noted for breaking barriers as one of the first women to establish a full-time presence in tennis commentary. She later gained prominence as a respected sports journalist and Olympic telecast host. Billie Jean King introduced Carillo by sharing a personal anecdote, highlighting Carillo’s storytelling prowess and her status as a significant figure in tennis history.

Carillo’s induction speech was widely praised for its wit and warmth, setting a high bar for the ceremony. She affectionately referred to Federer as a “funny-looking guy” and acknowledged the extraordinary level at which he competed throughout his career.

Federer’s speech initially conveyed a sense of formality as he recounted his Grand Slam achievements and career milestones. However, as the address progressed, he grew more reflective and emotional. He described tennis as “a complex and beautiful thing” and expressed gratitude toward those who supported him, including late coaches Peter Carter and Peter Lundgren, childhood hero Stefan Edberg, and longtime coach Severin Luthi. The mention of his wife Mirka Federer, who spoke earlier during the ceremony, touched him deeply. Mirka, who rarely speaks in public, praised their partnership both on and off the court, recalling stories from Federer’s early days and their life as parents of twins on the road during his career.

Federer acknowledged the difficulty he faced in publicly expressing emotion but embraced vulnerability throughout his remarks. He emphasized that fame had never been his primary goal, but instead, his motivation was to engage in a sport he loved with people he loved.

Reflecting on his journey, Federer spoke affectionately about his beginnings as a ball boy in Basel and his development with his father’s wooden racket during an era when tennis balls were white. He encouraged current and future players to maintain a youthful spirit and push the boundaries of the game.

Closing his speech, Federer addressed young players who dream of the sport, promising to always view tennis through their eyes. The ceremony underscored not only his professional legacy but also his personal humility and enduring connection to the tennis community.