‘Such a Mess’ - Roger Federer Tearfully Addresses Wife Mirka and Martina Navratilova at Hall of Fame Induction

Roger Federer's love for his wife, Mirka, was on full display during his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. After Mirka took the stage to introduce the 20-time Grand Slam champion, Federer delivered a heartfelt speech, fighting back tears while paying tribute to his wife and highlighting Martina Navratilova's crucial role in their journey.

Roger Federer Honors Wife Mirka and Martina Navratilova at Hall of Fame Induction

Federer has been surrounded by fellow tennis legends since arriving in the United States ahead of his Hall of Fame induction ceremony. After squaring off against Andy Roddick and sharing the court with John McEnroe and Andre Agassi during an exhibition night at the US Open, the 20-time Grand Slam champion headed to Newport, Rhode Island, for the event.

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Ahead of his induction, Federer teamed up with Martina Navratilova for an exhibition doubles match on the grass courts. The 45-year-old later gave a touching shoutout to Navratilova during his speech, noting that she inspired his wife, Mirka, to play tennis, which eventually led to their meeting at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

"Martina Navratilova, you know her for winning 59 majors. But in our house, she's famous for inspiring Mirka to play tennis," Federer said.

Federer was moved to tears as he began speaking about Mirka, saying, "I need tissues and sunglasses. I need everything to protect me right now. Oh my God. Now we're going into the Mirka bit. This is such a mess."

After crediting Navratilova, the 20-time Grand Slam champion went on to highlight the many important roles Mirka has played in his personal life and career.

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"So Martina inspired Mirka and Mirka inspires me every day. As you know, Mirka's my wife, which is the greatest understatement I can make because she's also been my coach, my hitting partner before matches, and my reality check. Also my stylist. I definitely needed one at the time. Maybe I don't know now," he said.

Federer delivered a heartfelt tribute to his wife of 17 years, praising her as a wonderful mother to their four children, Charlene, Myla Rose, Leo, and Lenny.

"Mirka's the person who showed me how to get more focused about tennis and take joy in everything else. A wonderful mother to our four kids, who makes the impossible happen in all our lives. She and I grab each other's hands, and we run through walls. Thank you," he added.

Mirka herself gave an emotional speech while introducing Roger Federer at the ceremony, praising him as a "devoted father" and crediting his parents for raising him to lead with "humility, gratitude, and kindness."

ALSO READ: 'Wasn't Being Dramatic' – Roger Federer's Wife Mirka Discloses His Offer to Quit Tennis at Hall of Fame Induction

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