Roger Federer Returns to Wow 218K Fans at Australian Open

Roger Federer proved retirement hasn't dimmed his star power one bit as he headlined the Australian Open's historic first opening ceremony in Melbourne.

The six-time Australian Open champion returned to the court for the first time since 2021, partnering with legends Andre Agassi and Ash Barty in exhibition doubles against Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt. A packed house of 15,000 fans erupted as Federer sealed the victory with a signature leaping overhead winner.

The ceremony itself felt like a celebration of tennis past and present. Rock band Crowded House performed four hits while 87-year-old Rod Laver, the Australian Grand Slam legend, watched courtside from the arena named in his honor. Even Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, showed up to take in the festivities.

Federer's appearance carried extra weight because he never got to do a proper farewell tour. He retired from competitive tennis in 2022 before he could say goodbye at all his favorite tournaments, making this Australian return especially meaningful.

The Ripple Effect goes beyond one magical night. Australian Open organizers transformed the 2026 tournament into a three-week tennis festival, drawing 217,999 fans across six days of exhibitions, qualifying matches, and the 1 Point Slam event before the main draw even started. That's nearly a quarter million people coming together to celebrate a sport they love.

Federer reminded everyone why gratitude matters in sports. "It really truly means so much to me when people like Rocket (Laver) show up," he said. "It's super important to be grateful" to earlier generations of stars.

The main draw singles competition begins Sunday, but the tournament already feels like a winner.