David Hall to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2015

"Tennis has taken me further than I ever imagined and I can't wait to get to Newport to share this wonderful honour with my family and friends."

Australia’s six-time Paralympic medallist David Hall has been elected to receive the highest honour in tennis – induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, alongside France’s former world No. 1 and two-time major champion Amelie Mauresmo.

Long-time tennis industry leader Nancy Jeffett has been elected in the Contributor Category in recognition of her lifetime commitment to the growth of the sport, particularly in the areas of women's professional tennis and junior tennis development.

The 2015 inductees were announced on Monday (9 March) at a press conference in New York, USA, as part of the World Tennis Day festivities, which is being celebrated around the globe on 10 March.

Since 1955, the honour of induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame has been presented to just 240 people representing 21 nations. Located in Newport, Rhode Island, the International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of tennis. The Class of 2015 will be honoured with tribute exhibits in the Hall of Fame's museum, which is currently undergoing a USD 3 million renovation to offer tennis fans a new, engaging, state-of-the-art experience. The museum will re-open in May.

"Amelie and David were both inspiring and highly accomplished competitors on the professional tours. Nancy's commitment to tennis has been integral to the growth of the sport and will leave a permanent positive impact on tennis for years to come," commented Hall of Fame President Stan Smith, who also serves as chairman of the Enshrinee Nominating Committee. "We look forward to celebrating their many accomplishments and contributions to tennis by presentation of our sport's highest honour- induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame."

Hall is the fourth wheelchair tennis player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Earlier this year, he was inducted into the Australian Tennis Hall of Fame.

"I feel so honoured and thankful that I am going to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. I'm sure the ceremony will be a very emotional moment for me," Hall said. "Tennis has taken me further than I ever imagined and I can't wait to get to Newport to share this wonderful honour with my family and friends."

Individuals are eligible for Hall of Fame induction in three categories, Recent Player, Master Player, and Contributor.

The Class of 2015 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held on 18 July at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The ceremony will be a highlight of the Rolex Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend, which will also feature museum tribute exhibits for the new Hall of Famers, celebratory parties and special events, and an exhibition match featuring great tennis legends. The ceremony and festivities will be held in conjunction with the annual Hall of Fame Tennis Championships, an ATP World Tour event.