Federer to make ceremonial return to AO

Roger Federer will return to the Australian Open for the first time  in six years inJanuary as the six-time champion highlights the opening ceremony of the 2026 edition on January 17.

The iconic Swiss played his last Melbourne match in a 2020 semi-final against Novak Djokovic played in the weeks before the worldwide Covid pandemic erupted.

The 44 year-old with 20 Grand Slam titles will compete in a battle between former world No. 1  which also includes four-time winner Andre Agassi and Aussie legends Patrick Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt.

“It feels like a lifetime ago that I coined the phrase the ‘Happy Slam’ for the Australian Open, and it still makes me smile when I think about all the moments I’ve had here” Roger Federer said in a statement released on Friday.

“I’ve experienced so many emotions on Rod Laver Arena … the joy of lifting ‘Norman’ six times, the honour of playing in front of Rod Laver himself, the challenge of competing against my biggest rivals, and always the overwhelming love and support of the Australian fans.”

He added: “Coming back to win the AO in 2017 is one of my most treasured Grand Slam memories and backing it up to win in 2018 was another dream come true in Melbourne. 

“I can’t wait to come down under again to the AO and create more fantastic moments with all the Aussie fans.”

Main photo:- Roger Federer exits centre court Wimbledon for the last time in 2022 – by Roger Parker ISF Ltd