The crowd at Rod Laver Arena saw a special moment on January 16, 2026, when Roger Federer walked onto the court for the first time since retiring in 2022. The Australian Open crowd rose to its feet, fans waved banners, cheered loudly, and chanted “Roger, Roger” as the six-time champion smiled at them.
However, what caught everyone’s attention was his former rival, Novak Djokovic, watching the Swiss legend during his match.
Novak Djokovic Watches Roger Federer Dominate Casper Ruud
Federer’s appearance was part of a special weekend celebrating his legacy at the tournament. It also caught the attention of other tennis greats like Djokovic, who was seen watching from the entry tunnel as the Swiss legend took part in a practice exhibition against Casper Ruud.
Federer played Ruud in a short-format match and won the tiebreak 7-2. Even after being retired for over three years, it seemed like the 44-year-old still had the footwork, his timing, and smooth shot-making, which reminded everyone why he is one of the greats ever.
Djokovic’s presence made the moment even more special. Seeing the 24-time Grand Slam champion quietly watching Federer was like two legends of the modern game sharing a rare moment, even though one is no longer competing. It also showed the respect between rivals who shaped an era.
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Federer’s exhibition also set the stage for the Australian Open’s first-ever Opening Ceremony, which will be held on January 17. The event will honor the sport’s history. Along with Federer, legends like Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt will also be celebrated.
Federer Reflects on Australian Open Memories and Carlos Alcaraz vs. Jannik Sinner Rivalry
After the match with Ruud, Federer talked about his favorite memories at the Australian Open. The 20-time Grand Slam champion said his most special memory is the 2017 final against Rafael Nadal, where he made a comeback to win in five sets and finished the match with a forehand winner. That victory was also his return to Grand Slam success after injury.
He also recalled his win over Juan Carlos Ferrero in 2004, which helped him become world No. 1 for the first time.
Federer says his favourite memory of Australian open is the 2017 final against Nadal where he won an epic 5th set thriller but he also highlighted that winning the #1 ranking after beating Ferrero in 2004 was also a highlightpic.twitter.com/Owh6jILAA9
— SRF (@S_RF_CA) January 16, 2026
Moreover, Federer also shared his appreciation for today’s big names, especially the growing rivalry between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. The world No. 1 and No. 2 have won the last eight Grand Slam titles between them, and Federer believes they are creating a new golden era in men’s tennis.
“They play incredible tennis and their rivalry is formidable,” Federer said. He recalled their 2025 Roland Garros final and said, “For a moment, it felt like the sporting world stood still and watched what was happening in Paris, especially in that epic fifth set, because it could have ended much sooner for Jannik.”
“Then all of a sudden it finished in the most crazy fashion. Maybe one of the greatest matches we’ve ever had in our sport,” he added.
The Swiss legend then went on to praise the two new-age stars for backing up their rivalry’s hype by playing the finals of other Grand Slams and tournaments, and believes there is more to come from them.
