Tennis stars Henin, Safin ushered into Hall of Fame

Seven-times grand slam singles winner Henin and twice grand slam champion Safin were joined in the festivities by France’s Amelie Mauresmo, who won election last year but was unable to attend induction ceremonies due to the birth of her son. 

Henin, 34, the first Belgian elected to the shrine, said standing in the spotlight was difficult for her but very much appreciated as the culmination of a dream that began at age six. 

“Being the centre of the attention is not always the best for me,” she told reporters. “Today is also quite emotional, not only get this honor, but also need to remember how hard was the way, but how beautiful was the way from the little girl of six years old that was not that big.

“Being part of the history of the game, it’s much more than I could expect for as a little girl. I’m really proud, happy.” 

Safin burst to prominence with a stunning straight-sets rout of Pete Sampras in the 2000 U.S. Open final and added the 2005 Australian Open crown over Lleyton Hewitt in addition to helping Russia win two Davis Cup championships. 

The big Russian, known for taking his frustrations out on his rackets and tennis balls, said he felt like a kid in Disneyland in visiting the Hall of Fame museum. 

“This is an amazing place. You feel the power, the energy. You can see what kind of people are living here before. You have a museum, a beautiful place,” said Safin. “I’m just so pleased to be part of it. It’s a huge honour to be inducted and be part of the history.” 

Henin, remembered for her all-round game and devastating one-handed backhand, said her fate was sealed at an early age. 

“At 10 years old I went to the French Open. It was the final between Steffi (Graf) and Monica (Seles),” recalled Henin.