Letters to Greatness Comes to Life at the BNP Paribas Open
The BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells wasn’t just a showcase of world-class tennis this year—it also served as a chance for tennis fans around the world to participate in celebrating the International Tennis Hall of Fame's Class of 2026!
Throughout the tournament, fans of all ages gathered at the ITHF’s interactive Letters to Greatness booth, where they were invited to record or write heartfelt messages congratulating Roger Federer and Mary Carillo ahead of their induction as part of the Class of 2026. The activation created a meaningful opportunity for fans to connect personally with two icons whose impact on tennis spans generations.
The booth quickly became a must-visit destination on the grounds, offering not only a chance to participate in the tribute, but also an up-close look at special artifacts celebrating the remarkable careers of Federer and Carillo. From historic memorabilia to personal items, the display gave fans a deeper appreciation for their achievements and contributions to the sport.
Adding to the excitement, Carillo herself made a special appearance at the booth—greeting fans, taking photos, and sharing in the celebration firsthand.
The star power didn’t stop there. A lineup of tennis legends and Hall of Famers also stopped by to show their support, including Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan, Mats Wilander, Tracy Austin, Martina Navratilova, Vijay Amritraj, Jim Courier, Gigi Fernández, and Pam Shriver.
Each took time to congratulate Federer and Carillo, while also signing autographs and posing for photos with fans, creating unforgettable moments throughout the week.
From heartfelt fan tributes to surprise appearances by tennis greats, the Letters to Greatness booth captured the spirit of the sport—past, present, and future—all in one place. As anticipation builds for the Class of 2026 Induction Celebration, the messages collected at the BNP Paribas Openv will stand as a powerful testament to the impact of two truly deserving honorees.
Watch the video below to see Letters to Greatness in action:
