Roger Federer is poised to step back onto the storied courts of Flushing Meadows for a highly anticipated exhibition match, a moment that will be streamed live on Sky Sports. The five‑time consecutive US Open men’s singles champion, now 45, will make his first appearance at Arthur Ashe Stadium since his loss to Grigor Dimitrov in 2019, marking a poignant return after a lengthy hiatus. The Swiss legend’s last attempt to compete at the US Open was thwarted by a knee injury that forced him out of the 2020 tournament, and he never managed to enter the main draw again before announcing his retirement in September 2022. Throughout his illustrious career, Federer never received the chance to bid a proper farewell to the New York crowd that had cheered him on for more than a decade.

This exhibition, titled "Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York," offers him that long‑overdue platform, with a live broadcast scheduled for 1 a.m. BST on Wednesday morning via Sky Sports Main Event. "It really gives me a true opportunity to say thank you and goodbye, which I think is important for some," Federer explained, emphasizing the emotional weight of the event.

"It's a nice thing to do, for sure." The program will feature a single set of singles play against former world No. 1 Andy Roddick, followed by a doubles showdown where Federer will team up with another tennis great, John McEnroe, to take on the pairing of Roddick and Andre Agassi.

This line‑up of legends promises a nostalgic spectacle for fans of the sport. Despite the celebratory tone, Federer admitted to feeling a degree of nervousness about stepping back onto the court after several years away from competitive singles. "It's 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, recalling his final Grand Slam match. "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 surprising partnerships, such as Serena Williams teaming up with Carlos Alcaraz for the mixed‑doubles event. When asked whether he might follow Williams’ example and un‑retire for a special appearance, 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 those eager to watch, the match will be streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event. Viewers without a Sky subscription can still access the broadcast through Sky Sports' streaming options, which do not require a long‑term contract.

The event not only serves as a nostalgic tribute to Federer’s impact on the game but also provides a unique opportunity for new fans to witness his graceful style and sportsmanship firsthand. In addition to the exhibition, Sky Sports will continue to cover the ongoing US Open, offering live scores, results, and upcoming match schedules. Fans can also explore a comprehensive A‑Z guide to tennis terminology, watch highlights, interviews, and exclusive video content, all accessible via a Chrome browser for the best viewing experience.

Overall, Federer’s return to Arthur Ashe Stadium symbolizes a full‑circle moment—a chance to celebrate his achievements, express gratitude to the New York audience, and close his competitive chapter on his own terms, all while sharing the court with fellow legends who have shaped the sport’s history.