Roger Federer is poised to stage a much‑anticipated comeback on the storied courts of Flushing Meadows, taking part in a special exhibition match that will be shown live on Sky Sports. The five‑time defending champion of the US Open men’s singles will step onto the Arthur Ashe Stadium surface for the first time since his defeat by Grigor Dimitrov in 2019, marking a poignant return to the Grand Slam venue that has defined much of his career. The 45‑year‑old Swiss legend was forced to miss the 2020 US Open after a knee injury ruled him out of the tournament, and he never competed at the event again before announcing his retirement in September 2022.
Although he bowed out of professional competition without a formal farewell in New York, Federer now has the chance to address the city’s fans one last time through an exhibition titled "Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York." The show will be aired on Sky Sports Main Event at 1 a.m. British Summer Time on Wednesday morning, offering a unique platform for the tennis great to express his gratitude and say a proper goodbye. "It really gives me a true opportunity to say thank you and goodbye, which I think is important for some," Federer explained. "It's a nice thing to do, for sure." His words reflect the emotional weight of returning to a venue where he has celebrated countless triumphs, from his first US Open title in 2004 to his most recent victory in 2008, and where he built many of his most cherished memories.
The exhibition’s format will see Federer start with a single set of singles against former world No. 1 Andy Roddick.
Following that, he will team up with another legendary figure, John McEnroe, to form a doubles pair that will take on Roddick and Andre Agassi. This blend of past icons promises a nostalgic spectacle for tennis enthusiasts, combining classic rivalries with a celebratory atmosphere. Despite the festive setting, 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 on Monday, referencing the final Grand Slam match of his career.
"I don't know how it's going to go tomorrow. 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 memories." The exhibition arrives at a time when tennis fans are also buzzing about other unexpected pairings at the US Open.
Notably, Serena Williams surprised the crowd by teaming up with rising star Carlos Alcaraz for a mixed‑doubles appearance, sparking speculation about possible retirements and comebacks. When asked whether he might follow Williams’ example and step back onto the court, 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." For viewers eager to watch, the match will be streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event.
Those without a Sky subscription can still access the broadcast via Sky Sports' streaming options, which do not require a long‑term contract. The event also provides a broader opportunity to explore tennis coverage through the NOW platform, which streams the US Open along with other tournaments, and offers an A‑Z guide to tennis terminology for newcomers. In addition to the main exhibition, fans can look forward to a range of tennis‑related content, including highlights, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes footage.
The broadcast encourages the use of the Chrome browser for an optimal video‑player experience, ensuring smooth streaming and accessibility. Overall, Federer’s return to Arthur Ashe Stadium, even in an exhibition context, serves as a heartfelt tribute to his enduring legacy and the deep connection he forged with New York audiences over two decades. It allows him to close the chapter of his competitive career on his own terms, surrounded by fellow legends and the fans who have supported him throughout his remarkable journey.
The event not only celebrates his past achievements but also underscores the timeless appeal of tennis, reminding viewers why Federer remains an iconic figure in the sport.