Federer Shines in US Open Exhibition, Beats Roddick and Wins Doubles
Roger Federer played at Arthur Ashe Stadium for the first time since 2019 in a special exhibition before the US Open. He beat Andy Roddick 6-3 in singles, then teamed with John McEnroe to defeat Roddick and Andre Agassi 7-5 in doubles. Federer, 45, said he hadn't played a singles set in five years.
Federer’s return to Arthur Ashe marked his first appearance there since 2019, and he showed little rust, winning the singles set 6-3 against Roddick. He then paired with McEnroe to edge Roddick and Agassi 7-5 in doubles. The 45-year-old admitted he had not played a competitive singles set in five years, since facing Hurkacz at Wimbledon. Federer, who won five straight U.S. Open titles from 2004–2008, also confirmed he has no plans for a comeback. The exhibition precedes his Saturday enshrinement into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport.
This exhibition may rekindle nostalgia among longtime tennis fans and introduce Federer’s artistry to a younger audience, potentially boosting interest in the U.S. Open’s early rounds. His clear denial of a return could temper speculation, but the event’s celebratory tone may reinforce tennis’s reliance on past legends to draw attention, especially as current stars like Alcaraz and Serena continue to headline.