Roger Federer is poised to step back onto the courts of Flushing Meadows for a highly anticipated exhibition appearance, which will be shown live on Sky Sports. The five‑time defending champion of the US Open men’s singles will take part in a special showcase match, marking his first time in Arthur Ashe Stadium since his loss to Grigor Dimitrov in 2019. The 45‑year‑old Swiss legend last competed at the US Open in 2020, when a lingering knee injury forced him to withdraw from the tournament before the draw began.
After that setback, he never returned to the Grand Slam stage, and in September 2022 he announced his retirement from professional tennis. Because his career concluded without a formal farewell on the New York courts, many fans have felt that the chapter remained unfinished.
Now, Federer will finally have the opportunity to say a proper goodbye to the New York crowd during an exhibition titled “Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York.” The event is scheduled for early Wednesday morning, with the live feed airing on Sky Sports Main Event at 1 a.m. British Summer Time.
In his own words, the Swiss star explained why the occasion matters to him: “It really gives me a true opportunity to say thank you and goodbye, which I think is important for some. It’s a nice thing to do, for sure.” The exhibition will feature a one‑set singles showdown against former world No. 1 Andy Roddick, followed by a doubles contest in which Federer will partner with the legendary John McEnroe.
Together they will take on the duo of Roddick and Andre Agassi, providing fans with a nostalgic blend of past champions sharing the court. Despite the celebratory tone, Federer admitted that the prospect of playing again is nerve‑wracking.
“I haven’t played a singles set in, I don’t know, since Hubert Hurkacz at Wimbledon in 2021 maybe, so it’s been five years,” he said, referring to his final Grand Slam match. “I don’t know how it’s going to go tomorrow. There is a lot of uncertainty but also a lot of happiness that I can return to Arthur Ashe, a place where I have had so many beautiful memories.” The exhibition is more than a simple exhibition; it serves as a symbolic closure for a career that amassed 20 Grand Slam titles, 103 ATP singles titles, and a record‑setting 310 weeks at world No.
1. Throughout his two‑decade‑long dominance, Federer captured the imagination of tennis fans worldwide with his graceful playing style, sportsmanship, and consistency.
Yet, the abrupt end caused by injury left a lingering sense of incompleteness. This event, therefore, carries emotional weight for both the player and his admirers.
In addition to the match itself, the broadcast will include a suite of tennis‑related content: live scores, upcoming match previews, and a comprehensive A‑Z guide to tennis terminology for newcomers. Viewers will also have access to highlights, interviews, and video clips that capture the excitement of the tournament. The network recommends using the Chrome browser for the most accessible video player experience.
The exhibition also arrives amid other notable moments at the US Open. Serena Williams, now 44, surprised the tennis world by teaming up with rising star Carlos Alcaraz for a mixed‑doubles exhibition, sparking widespread discussion. When asked whether he might follow Williams’ example and return from retirement, Federer was unequivocal: “No, not at all.
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.” Fans who do not have a Sky Sports subscription can still watch the event via streaming options that do not require a contract, ensuring that the historic moment reaches as wide an audience as possible. The combination of nostalgia, gratitude, and the sheer joy of seeing a tennis icon back on the court makes this exhibition a must‑watch for anyone who has followed the sport over the past two decades.
In summary, Roger Federer’s return to Arthur Ashe Stadium, even in an exhibition format, represents a poignant farewell to a city that has witnessed many of his greatest triumphs. The event offers a rare chance for the tennis community to celebrate his contributions, reminisce about his iconic moments, and share in the collective appreciation for a player who has defined an era. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to the sport, the broadcast promises an unforgettable blend of history, emotion, and top‑level tennis entertainment.