Roger Federer, the 20-time Grand Slam champion who retired from professional tennis in 2022, will return to the court at the 2026 US Open. The Swiss legend is scheduled to participate in a special exhibition doubles match at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, marking his first appearance at the tournament since 2019.
A Return to Flushing Meadows
The announcement confirms Federer’s presence at the New York Grand Slam, an event where he shares the Open Era record for most men’s singles titles with five, a feat he achieved consecutively between 2004 and 2008. According to reports from the tournament, the exhibition will feature a high-profile lineup including Andy Roddick, John McEnroe, and Andre Agassi. This appearance follows Federer’s recent return to the circuit in an exhibition match at the Australian Open earlier this year, where he played alongside Lleyton Hewitt and Andre Agassi.
Reflecting on New York
In a statement regarding his return to the venue, Federer emphasized the personal significance of the US Open. “The US Open has always been one of the most special tournaments for me,” he said. “So many unforgettable moments of my career happened in New York, and Arthur Ashe Stadium is a place that means a great deal to me.” He added that he missed the atmosphere and the energy brought by the fans, noting that sharing the evening with Roddick, Agassi, and McEnroe would make the occasion particularly meaningful.
Federer’s Legacy in the Open Era
Federer’s career, which spanned from his professional debut in 1998 until his retirement in 2022, saw him secure 103 career singles titles and spend 310 weeks as the world No. 1, according to ATP records. His five-year winning streak in New York remains an unmatched record in the Open Era. While he has remained largely away from competitive professional play since his final appearance at the Laver Cup in 2022, his recent exhibition engagements suggest a gradual reintegration into the tennis community.
What to Expect in August
The exhibition match is slated for the qualifying stages of the 2026 US Open, providing fans an opportunity to see the former world No. 1 back on the iconic hard courts of Flushing Meadows. This event serves as a focal point for tennis fans looking to celebrate the career of a player who holds the third-highest career prize money total in history at over $130 million. For those following the tournament, further updates regarding the event schedule and broadcast details are expected as the August 25 date approaches.
Are you planning to attend the exhibition in New York? Share your thoughts on Federer’s return in the comments below.
