Roger Federer says he is prepared for an emotional moment when he is inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame, with the Swiss legend expecting that happy tears could once again accompany a major milestone in his remarkable career.

Federer recalled one of the first times he became emotional on a tennis court, following his famous victory over Pete Sampras at Wimbledon in 2001.

Playing on Centre Court, Federer defeated Sampras, one of his childhood heroes, and dropped to his knees after securing the victory. He later recalled being surprised by the wave of emotion that followed as he shook hands with the American great.

That breakthrough became an early defining moment in a career that would eventually establish Federer as one of the most celebrated players in tennis history.

Over the following two decades, Federer collected major titles, broke numerous records and became a global sporting icon. His emotional reactions to victories and defeats also became a familiar part of his relationship with tennis fans around the world.

Those emotions were again visible when Federer ended his professional career in 2022, with his farewell producing memorable scenes as he shared the occasion with fellow players, friends and supporters.

Now, as another major recognition approaches with his Hall of Fame induction, Federer says he is ready for the possibility that the occasion will once again bring tears.

The ceremony will celebrate a career that transformed Federer from a talented young player who defeated his hero at Wimbledon into one of the most influential and recognisable figures in the history of tennis.