Federer played with his wife in doubles tournament after they started dating

Roger Federer once played alongside his wife Mirka Federer when the pair teamed up in mixed doubles at the Hopman Cup in Perth back in 2002.

The Swiss star announced on Thursday he was set to retire, and leave the sport as one of the greatest ever to step foot on the court. The 41-year-old said in an emotional statement he 'knows his body' and called the curtain on his glistening career.

And with all the trophies and awards that have littered Federer at every step of his career, it's perhaps his doubles match with Mirka he'll hold the closest. The pair only played together once – and they crashed out of the tournament – but the constant smiles between the pair tell another story.

READ MORE: Roger Federer to retire as tennis great thanks fans for 'unbelievable' journey

Mirka had replaced Martina Hingis in Switzerland's Hopman Cup team in 2002. Hingis had partnered Federer in 2001 as the pair won the competition for the Alpine nation.

The pair were beaten by Australia and Spain, but ended on a high with a win against Argentina. After their match against Australia Mirka was asked about her time down under: "Yeah I enjoy it really very much, the hotel is nice, the site is very nice, the people here are very nice."

She was then asked about Federer, and she giggled back: "Yes he is very nice."

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The pair married in Basel in 2009, and Federer credits her with helping his career: "She is a strong and intelligent woman who has had a huge impact on me both on and off the court. She trusted me and taught me to always do my best," he penned in his book.

"She has been close to me after every defeat. She has never allowed my profession as a professional player to interfere with our daily life.

"Mirka has kept our friends and family together, as well as showing me how important it is to follow your own path without paying too much attention to the media or detractors."

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