Federer returns to Melbourne spotlight
Roger Federer’s presence at the Australian Open once again commanded attention, even though no ranking points or trophies were at stake. The former world number one returned to Melbourne for a practice session that carried the feel of a major occasion, underscoring his lasting appeal years after retirement.
According to talkSPORT, the appearance marked Federer’s first time on an Australian Open court since his final competitive match there in 2020.
A familiar stage, a different setting
Federer, now 44, walked onto Rod Laver Arena on Friday to contest a practice tiebreak against Casper Ruud. While the session was billed as a friendly hit, the atmosphere inside the stadium reflected something closer to a main draw match.
Fans responded loudly from the opening exchanges, many of them having witnessed Federer’s six Australian Open titles between 2004 and 2018.
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Ruud, currently ranked world number 12, shared the court with a player 17 years older, a gap that became irrelevant once play began.
Skill that never left
Federer claimed a 7,2 win in the single tiebreak, showcasing the shot making that defined his career. The crowd reacted sharply to a serve and volley winner, a flowing forehand and a one handed backhand return struck cleanly down the line.
TalkSPORT reported that Federer appeared relaxed and comfortable throughout the session, drawing a standing ovation as the tiebreak concluded.
Ruud later acknowledged the experience on Instagram, posting a photo of the pair and writing, “Best practice partner in a while.”
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Memories tied to Melbourne
Federer’s history with the Australian Open remains central to his legacy. Speaking ahead of further events this week, he reflected on his long relationship with the tournament.
“It feels like a lifetime ago that I coined the phrase the ‘Happy Slam’ for the Australian Open,” Federer said. “And it still makes me smile when I think about all the moments I’ve had here.”
He also highlighted the significance of his later career triumphs in Melbourne, saying, “Coming back to win the Australian Open in 2017 is one of my most treasured Grand Slam memories and backing it up to win in 2018 was another dream come true.”
A farewell shaped by history
Federer is scheduled to return to the court again during the Australian Open opening ceremony, taking part in an exhibition alongside Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt and Pat Rafter.
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Explaining his decision to appear, Federer said, “I feel good to rip the band aid off and show up on a big court like Rod Laver Arena.”
For Australian fans, the event represents a rare chance to see a defining figure of the modern game one more time, not in pursuit of titles, but in recognition of a shared history that helped shape the tournament’s identity.
Sources: talkSPORT
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