Roger Federer has left the door open for another appearance at the US Open after making an emotional return to Arthur Ashe Stadium for a special Legends exhibition, more than four years after retiring from professional tennis.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion received a rousing reception from the New York crowd before defeating former rival Andy Roddick 6-3 in a one-set singles contest. Federer then partnered John McEnroe to beat Roddick and Andre Agassi 7-5 in doubles.
Federer leaves door open
Speaking after the exhibition, the 45-year-old said he hoped the occasion would not prove to be his final appearance on court and pointed to McEnroe's continued involvement in the sport as an inspiration.
“I hope this isn't my last time on court,” Federer said, suggesting he would welcome another opportunity to play before his fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The Swiss great, however, has not indicated any intention of returning to professional competition. His appearance was part of the special “Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York” exhibition during US Open Fan Week. Federer retired from professional tennis in 2022 and had last competed at the US Open in 2019.
Federer thanked the crowd for its support and described playing again at Arthur Ashe Stadium as a special experience. The occasion was made more memorable by the presence of his wife and parents.
Special bond with New York
Federer's relationship with Flushing Meadows stretches back more than two decades. He won five consecutive US Open singles titles from 2004 to 2008 and remains the only player, man or woman, to have achieved that feat in the tournament's modern history.
His first appearance on Arthur Ashe Stadium came against Agassi in 2001, when the American defeated the young Federer in straight sets. Federer would subsequently become one of the dominant figures of his generation and spend 310 weeks as world No. 1.
The New York appearance comes during another significant week in Federer's post-playing career. The Swiss great is due to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday, August 29, before returning to the US Open for a ring ceremony on Monday.
Federer ended his professional career in September 2022 at the Laver Cup, concluding a career in which he won 103 ATP singles titles, including 20 Grand Slam crowns. His latest appearance at Arthur Ashe Stadium showed that, even in retirement, his connection with the New York crowd remains intact.