Roger federer to Return to Australian open in 2026 for Farewell Exhibition
Roger Federer will return to the Australian Open in January 2026 for a special farewell appearance during the opening ceremony, marking his official goodbye to the tournament and its fans. The exhibition match will precede the start of the main draw.
Federer,a six-time Australian Open champion,last competed at the tournament in 2020,losing to Novak Djokovic in the semifinals. He officially retired from professional tennis in September 2022 following the laver Cup. https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/news/roger-federer-retirement-laver-cup-london
The declaration was made with a quote from Federer reflecting on his history with the tournament. “It feels like a long time has passed as the first time I called the Australian Open the ‘Happy Slam’, and every time I think about this experience, it still makes me smile,” Federer said. “I experienced so many emotions at Rod Laver Arena…the joy of lifting the Norman Brooks Challenge Cup six times, the honor of playing in front of Rod Laver himself, the challenge of playing against the best and the unfailing, heartwarming support of the Australian fans.”
The 2026 Australian Open main draw will begin on Sunday,January 18th,following Federer’s appearance. https://www.ausopen.com/