“It will hit you hard”: Roger Federer reveals Pete Sampras’ advice ahead of his Hall of Fame induction

Monday, 20 July 2026 at 02:30

Roger Federer is set to receive one of tennis’ highest honours later this year, but the Swiss legend admits that even after a career filled with historic achievements, he does not know exactly what emotions will come when he officially enters the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion will be inducted in Newport on August 29, joining an elite group of players who have shaped the history of the sport. While Federer has spent much of his career being celebrated as one of the greatest players of all time, he revealed that becoming part of tennis’ permanent legacy represents something completely different.

Federer explained that he recently spoke with Pete Sampras, another Hall of Fame member and one of the greatest champions in tennis history, to understand what the induction experience was like.

The American’s response gave Federer an idea of the impact the moment could have. “A little bit of the unknown, to be quite honest,” Federer admitted when asked about his feelings ahead of the ceremony.

Sampras’ advice gave Federer a glimpse of the moment ahead

Federer revealed that he approached Sampras with a simple question about his own Hall of Fame induction, expecting to learn more about the ceremony and what it represented. “I remember speaking to Sampras about it. I had asked him, ‘How was it for you to get into the Tennis Hall of Fame?’” Federer said.

The response from the former world No. 1 highlighted the emotional side of officially becoming part of tennis history. “He goes, like, it’s a moment like no other, Roger. You’ll see it will hit you hard and it will hit home strong and so I’m looking forward to that, you know, too,” Federer explained.

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For Federer, the appeal of the honour is not only about his own achievements, but also about sharing the moment with the legends who helped build the sport before him.

“Have my memories play through my head, seeing other legends or icons of the game who have paved the way for us and just being in there in their presence, I think it’s always very inspiring."

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A career that changed the sport forever

Federer’s induction comes after one of the most successful careers in tennis history. The Swiss won 20 Grand Slam singles titles, including eight Wimbledon trophies, six Australian Open titles, five US Open championships and his first Roland Garros crown in 2009 to complete the career Grand Slam.

He finished his career with 103 ATP singles titles, six ATP Finals trophies and 28 Masters 1000 titles, while spending 310 weeks as world No. 1. His rivalries with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic during the Big Three era defined one of the most competitive periods in men’s tennis history.

Roger Federer kisses Australian Open trophy.

Federer retired at the Laver Cup in 2022, ending a career that saw him remain among the sport’s elite for more than two decades. Since then, he has gradually taken on a different role around the sport, while his achievements continue to place him among the most decorated players ever.

The anticipation for his induction has already been reflected by fans. The International Tennis Hall of Fame confirmed that tickets for the 2026 ceremony sold out in just two minutes, with additional options later created through an outdoor watch party due to demand.

Federer will now join a Hall of Fame class that represents the different eras of tennis history, with his induction offering a chance to reflect on a career that helped define the modern game.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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