Federer cops epic Nadal sledge from own kids

Roger Federer has revealed a brilliant Rafael Nadal sledge he received from none other than his own children.

The tennis legend was honoured for his incredible 2017 by being awarded the Swiss Sportsman of the Year over the weekend.

IS THAT YOU? Federer sends fans into a frenzy with new look

After having his 2016 season curtailed by injury, Federer enjoyed a remarkable renaissance in 2017 that saw him snare the Australian Open and Wimbledon crowns, taking his record grand slam haul to 19.

Federer edged cross-country cyclist Nino Schurter and alpine ski racer Beat Feuz to win the award for a seventh time, and appeared at the ceremony via video link.

The 36-year-old thanked his coach Severin Luthi, as well as his parents who were in the audience.

But the highlight of Federer's acceptance speech came when he revealed his kids' brilliant reaction when he told them he was in the running for an award.

Speaking in Swiss-German, Federer revealed how his children were rather unconvinced of his worthiness, given he's only World No.2 behind Rafael Nadal.

“After dinner, my kids asked me where I was going," Federer told the crowd.

"I told them there is this awards gala where I could win a prize.

"Then they said: ‘But isn’t Rafa No. 1?’”

Federer laughed as he revealed the cheeky sledge, cuing more laughter from the crowd.

The Swiss great has twin girls Myla and Charlene and twin boys Lenny and Leo with wife Mirka.

He is set to return to the Hopman Cup in Perth this summer as he prepares to defend his Australian Open title.

The tennis great played the country-based, mixed-teams event in the lead up to the first grand slam of the year in January when he claimed his fifth title at Melbourne Park.

with AAP