Roger Federer at 45: A New Chapter as a Cheerleading Dad

Roger Federer is seeing doubles! The tennis legend, who celebrates his 45th birthday on Aug. 8, 2026, and his wife Mirka are the parents of four children: twin daughters Myla Rose and Charlene, born in 2009, and twin sons Leo and Lenny, born in 2014. In the later years of his career, his kids could be seen cheering him on in the stands as he pursued more Grand Slam titles. After he retired from professional tennis in September 2022, the roles have switched: He's now their biggest cheerleader.

"I feel like it's a very vital time to be around them and to help them, guide them, and obviously, let them also fly on their own," Federer told PEOPLE in June 2024. His words capture the essence of his post-tennis life, a life dedicated to family, with the same grace and devotion he once brought to the court.

Twin for the Win

Myla Rose and Charlene, then 3, matched dresses as they cheered their dad on during his 2012 Wimbledon final against Andy Murray. The image of the two little girls in their matching outfits, their eyes fixed on their father, became one of the most enduring images of that tournament. It was a glimpse into the private world of a public figure, a reminder that behind the champion was a devoted father.

The twins had already become familiar faces in the players' box, their presence a source of comfort and inspiration for Federer. Their matching dresses were a sweet touch, a symbol of the unity and love that defined the Federer family.

Double Time

In 2017, Leo and Lenny made their Wimbledon debut with their sisters to see Federer win his first Wimbledon title since 2012. The four children, all under the age of eight, sat in the players' box, their eyes wide with excitement as they watched their father make history. It was a moment of pure joy, a celebration of family and achievement.

The twins' debut at Wimbledon was a milestone for the Federer family. It marked the beginning of a new era, one in which the children would become increasingly present at their father's matches, cheering him on from the stands.

A Trip Down Under

All four traveled with mom and dad to the 2018 Australian Open, where Federer participated in the Kids Tennis Day event. The children, now a bit older, were more aware of their father's fame and the significance of the tournament. They watched from the stands as he played, their faces a mix of pride and excitement.

The Australian Open was a special tournament for Federer, who had won the title multiple times. Having his family with him made it even more meaningful. The children's presence was a reminder of what truly mattered, not just the trophies, but the love and support of his family.

Nail Biter

After Federer's heartbreaking five-set loss to Novak Djokovic in the 2019 Wimbledon final, the kids looked on during the trophy presentation. The image of the children, their faces a mix of disappointment and pride, was a poignant reminder of the emotional investment of a family in the success of a loved one.

The loss was a difficult moment for Federer, but the presence of his children was a source of comfort. They were there to support him, win or lose, and their love was unwavering.

Family First

In a rare photo of the family of six together, the Federers posed by the track at the F1 Grand Prix of Miami in 2023. The image was a testament to the strength of their family unit, a group that had weathered the challenges of fame and fortune together.

The Federer family has always been a close-knit group. Mirka, a former tennis player herself, has been a constant source of support for Roger, and the children have grown up in the spotlight, learning to navigate the challenges of being a public figure.

Green Team

Later that year, Mirka and Roger brought their kids to the Rugby World Cup final between South Africa and New Zealand in France. The family, dressed in green, cheered on the teams, their enthusiasm a testament to their love of sports.

The Federer children have inherited their parents' love of athletics. They have been exposed to a wide range of sports, from tennis to rugby, and their enthusiasm for competition is evident.

All Grown Up

Leo and Lenny, now 12, and Myla Rose and Charlene, now 17, accompanied their dad to Australia for his opening ceremony exhibition match in January. The children, now teenagers, are growing up fast, and their presence at their father's events is a reminder of the passage of time.

The children are all grown up, and Federer's role has shifted from that of a professional athlete to a supportive father. He is now their biggest cheerleader, watching from the sidelines as they pursue their own passions.

A Legacy of Love

Roger Federer's legacy extends far beyond his tennis achievements. He is a devoted husband and father, a role model for millions, and a testament to the power of love and family. As he celebrates his 45th birthday, he can look back on a life filled with accomplishments and look forward to a future filled with family and joy.

Federer's relationship with his children is a reminder that the greatest victories are not always won on the court. The love and support of family are the true trophies, the ones that last a lifetime.