Roger Federer to return to US Open four years after retirement

Roger Federer is set to make a special return to the US Open, four years after retiring from professional tennis.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion will feature in a one-night exhibition at Arthur Ashe Stadium during Fan Week, sharing the court with fellow tennis legends Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi and John McEnroe.

US Open organisers confirmed Federer’s appearance on social media, announcing: “An icon is returning to New York!” The Swiss great will first face longtime rival Roddick in a one-set singles match, with a deciding point to determine the winner if required.

Federer and Roddick met 24 times during their professional careers, with Federer winning 21 encounters. Their rivalry included several memorable Grand Slam battles, making their exhibition rematch one of the most anticipated moments of Fan Week.

The event will then move to doubles, with Federer teaming up with four-time US Open champion McEnroe against Roddick and Agassi.

Legendary connection

Federer has a legendary connection with Flushing Meadows. He won five consecutive US Open titles from 2004 to 2008, becoming the only player in history to claim five straight men’s singles crowns at the tournament.

His five US Open titles are a joint Open Era record, shared with Pete Sampras and Jimmy Connors.

Federer’s last competitive appearance at the US Open came in 2019, making this exhibition his first return to Arthur Ashe Stadium since then.

The Swiss legend is relishing the opportunity to revisit a venue where he created some of the defining moments of his career.

“Looking forward to being back in New York and adding new memories to so many special ones over the years,” Federer said. “See you soon NYC.”

The exhibition is scheduled for August 25 as part of Fan Week, ahead of the 2026 US Open. The main singles draws are set to begin on August 30.