Roger Federer, Mary Carillo Take Their Place in Tennis History

Roger Federer and Mary Carillo officially took their place among tennis royalty Saturday night, as the two were inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame during a star-studded celebration in Newport, Rhode Island.

Federer, the 20-time major champion whose graceful game and extraordinary longevity helped define an era of men’s tennis, and Carillo, the pioneering broadcaster and former player who became one of the sport’s most distinctive voices, became the 271st and 272nd legends enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

“It's been an incredible journey. For me, the International Tennis Hall of Fame provides a great opportunity to look back but also look ahead. As you can tell I'm still writing my love letter to tennis,” Federer said. “My time as a player is done, but tennis will always stand at the intersection of everything I care most about.”

Above: Roger Federer. Photo credit: International Tennis Hall of Fame

Federer’s résumé remains one of the most decorated in the sport. He became the first man to win 20 major singles titles, completed the career Grand Slam and spent 310 total weeks at world No. 1, including a record 237 consecutive weeks.

One of the evening’s most personal moments came before Federer even took the stage.

He was introduced by his wife, Mirka Federer, who spoke publicly about the years of work, discipline and commitment behind a career that often appeared effortless from the outside.

“What makes me proudest isn’t what Roger accomplished when the world was watching. It’s who he was when nobody is watching,” she said.

Above: Mary Carillo. Photo credit: International Tennis Hall of Fame

Carillo entered the Hall in the Contributor Category, honoring her groundbreaking career in sports media. After her own playing career, which included winning the 1977 French Open mixed doubles championship, Carillo became the first woman to regularly commentate on tennis matches involving men and went on to cover the sport for some of television’s biggest networks.

Hall of Famer Billie Jean King introduced Carillo, whose induction speech reflected on the journalists, athletes and friendships that have shaped her career.

“Matches get played. Memories get made. Stories get told and laughs sure get laughed. The years pass and athletes know better than anyone that you can't stop the tide,” Carillo said. “So, enjoy the ride. I've been blessed to take mine with so many good people, and that is the best thing I could dream for anybody.”

Source: International Tennis Hall of Fame

The ceremony capped a multi-day celebration in Newport that brought together 33 Hall of Famers along with family, friends, fans and celebrities.

The Hall of Fame also staged its first Red Carpet Pre-Show on the historic Stadium Court, with appearances from a formidable collection of tennis greats including Billie Jean King, John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Andy Roddick, Stefan Edberg, Jim Courier, Lleyton Hewitt, the Bryan brothers and Kim Clijsters.

For Federer and Carillo, it was one more tennis night to remember — this time with their places in the sport’s history made permanent.

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By Florida Tennis Staff. Sources: International Tennis Hall of Fame

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