Roger Federer is returning to the US Open, but not to professional tennis. The 20-time Grand Slam champion will play an exhibition match against Andy Roddick and a doubles match with John McEnroe against Roddick and Andre Agassi at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Tuesday night. This will be his first appearance at the venue since 2019.
Federer, who turned 45 in August, said he is nervous about playing, as he hasn't competed in a singles match since his loss to Hubert Hurkacz at Wimbledon in 2021. "I haven't played a singles set in, I don't know, Hurkacz at Wimbledon maybe, so it's been five years," Federer said, referring to his 2021 quarterfinal loss. "I don't know how it's going to go tomorrow. So there is a lot of uncertainty but a lot of happiness that I can return to Arthur Ashe, a place where I have had so many beautiful moments."
Federer, who won five consecutive US Open titles from 2004 to 2008, said he is not planning a comeback to the tour. "No, no, no, no. No, not at all," he said. "Thanks for asking. I wasn't sure if the question was going to get asked, but I'm happy you did so I can clarify in case anybody thought."
Federer has had multiple knee surgeries since 2020 and said his knee "can't do it anymore." He is heading to Newport, Rhode Island, for his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday. He said the exhibition gives him a chance to say goodbye to his fans. "They gave me an ovation because they saw me on the big screen, but I just feel, like, tomorrow and I guess today, as well, and Monday next week, it really gives me a true opportunity to say thank you and goodbye, which I think is important for some," he said.