Roger Federer to Return to Grass at Hall of Fame Exhibition

Newport, RI – Roger Federer is set to return to the grass courts of the International Tennis Hall of Fame this summer, not for a competitive match, but for a special on-court celebration coinciding with his induction into the Hall of Fame. The exhibition doubles match will take place on August 28th, as part of a three-day induction celebration running from August 27th to August 29th.

The announcement, made by the Hall of Fame on Tuesday, confirms Federer’s participation in the Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic presented by Fidelity Investments. While specific opponents have yet to be named, the event promises a chance for fans to see the 20-time Grand Slam champion back on the surface where he achieved some of his most iconic victories, including a record eight Wimbledon titles.

Federer will be inducted into the Player Category, alongside broadcaster Mary Carillo, who will be honored in the Contributor Category. The induction weekend will feature a variety of events, including the Red Carpet Pre-Show and Watch Party, Courting Fashion, the Fit for Fame Blazer Presentation dinner, and Fame Fest – a fan-focused event with tennis experiences, live podcast recordings, and food trucks.

Tickets for select events and full-weekend packages went on sale Wednesday, February 11th, with prices for the Celebrity Pro Classic starting at $90. This provides an opportunity for fans to witness Federer play on grass, a surface synonymous with his success and elegant playing style.

The return to Newport holds particular significance for Federer, given his dominance on grass. His 192 career wins on the surface, coupled with his six-match grass-court winning streak, cement his status as one of the greatest grass-court players of all time. The Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic offers a nostalgic glimpse back at that era, allowing fans to relive the magic of Federer’s game on its most celebrated surface.

The Hall of Fame is also introducing a new element to the celebration this year: a Red Carpet Pre-Show and Watch Party. This event will feature appearances from Federer, Carillo, and other Hall of Famers, providing fans with a unique opportunity to interact with tennis legends before viewing the Induction Ceremony on a large screen at the stadium court.

Beyond the on-court action, the weekend will also include the return of popular events like Courting Fashion, a cocktail evening held at Marble House, and Fame Fest, which will transform the Hall of Fame grounds into a vibrant hub of tennis activity. The Tennis Wave, a pop-up tennis court at Bowen’s Wharf, will kick off the festivities, offering fans a chance to engage with Hall of Famers in a more casual setting.

Federer’s recent practice sessions with world No. 13 Casper Ruud at the Australian Open, though not a competitive return, signaled a continued engagement with the sport and a desire to remain connected to the game he has elevated for over two decades. This exhibition match in Newport represents a further step in that direction, offering fans a chance to celebrate his career and witness his artistry one last time on the grass.

The event is particularly noteworthy given Federer’s retirement from professional tennis in September 2022. While he has remained involved in the sport through occasional appearances and practice sessions, this marks a significant return to competitive play, albeit in an exhibition format. The opportunity to see Federer’s signature backhand slice and volleying prowess on grass is sure to draw a large crowd and generate considerable excitement among tennis fans.

The Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic is more than just a tennis match; it’s a celebration of a career defined by grace, skill, and sportsmanship. Federer’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his contributions to the sport, and his participation in this exhibition match provides a unique opportunity for fans to honor his legacy and witness a legend back on the court where he reigned supreme.

As the anticipation builds for the induction weekend, the International Tennis Hall of Fame is preparing for a memorable event that will celebrate not only Federer’s achievements but also the rich history and enduring appeal of tennis. The combination of on-court action, fan engagement, and celebratory events promises a weekend that will resonate with tennis enthusiasts for years to come.