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Roger Federer Returns: Australian Open to Launch First-Ever Opening Ceremony

Posted onDecember 12, 2025 8:15 PMDecember 12, 2025 8:16 PM

MELBOURNE — The Australian Open is set to break new ground this January, introducing a spectacular new tradition to kick off the first Grand Slam of the year. For the first time in its 120-year history, the tournament will host an official Opening Ceremony on Saturday, January 17, the night before main draw action begins.

Headlining this historic occasion is none other than six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer, who will return to Rod Laver Arena to offer a long-awaited farewell to his Australian fans.

A Star-Studded ‘Battle of the World No. 1s’

The ceremony promises more than just pageantry; it will feature a unique exhibition match dubbed the ‘Battle of the World No. 1s’.

Federer will be joined on court by a lineup of tennis royalty, including four-time Australian Open champion Andre Agassi and Australian legends Patrick Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt. This gathering of icons aims to celebrate the champions who have shaped the sport and the legacies they continue to build.

The Return of the “Happy Slam” Creator

For Federer, the return to Melbourne Park is deeply personal. The Swiss maestro, who famously coined the term “Happy Slam” to describe the Australian Open, expressed his excitement about returning to the site of some of his greatest triumphs, including his resurgence titles in 2017 and 2018.

“It feels like a lifetime ago that I coined the phrase the ‘Happy Slam’ for the Australian Open, and it still makes me smile when I think about all the moments I’ve had here,” Federer said.

“I’ve experienced so many emotions on Rod Laver Arena … the joy of lifting ‘Norman’ six times, the honour of playing in front of Rod Laver himself, the challenge of competing against my biggest rivals, and always the overwhelming love and support of the Australian fans.”

A New Tradition for a Historic Tournament

Craig Tiley, the Australian Open Tournament Director, highlighted that while the tournament is known for innovation, this ceremony is about honoring the sport’s roots.

“While the AO has a reputation for innovation and is renowned for pushing the boundaries, we are also the custodians of a proud 120-year history filled with some of the sport’s greatest champions,” Tiley said.

“This inaugural Opening Ceremony will mark the start of a new tennis season in spectacular fashion. I can’t wait to see Roger back on Rod Laver Arena, along with other greats of the game Andre, Pat and Lleyton.”