Roger Federer is poised to step back onto the storied courts of Flushing Meadows for a highly anticipated exhibition match, which will be aired live on Sky Sports. The 45‑year‑old Swiss legend, who captured five straight US Open men’s singles titles, will make his first appearance at Arthur Ashe Stadium since his loss to Grigor Dimitrov in 2019. That match marked his last competitive outing at the Grand Slam venue before a knee injury forced him out of the 2020 US Open and ultimately led to his retirement announcement in September 2022.
During his illustrious career, Federer never received a proper farewell from the New York crowd—a city that has long cherished his elegant style and sportsmanship. The upcoming exhibition, titled "Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York," offers him a chance to express gratitude and say a heartfelt goodbye to the fans who have followed his journey for more than two decades. The event will be televised on Sky Sports Main Event, beginning at 1 a.m. British Summer Time on Wednesday morning.
"It really gives me a true opportunity to say thank you and goodbye, which I think is important for some," Federer explained in a recent interview. "It's a nice thing to do, for sure." The exhibition format is designed to showcase both nostalgia and excitement.
Federer will first compete in a single set of singles against former world No. 1 Andy Roddick.
After that, the Swiss maestro will join another tennis legend, John McEnroe, in a doubles showdown against a team comprising Roddick and Andre Agassi. This blend of past champions promises a unique spectacle for tennis aficionados and casual viewers alike.
Despite the celebratory tone, Federer admitted to feeling a degree of nerves ahead of the event. "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, referencing his final Grand Slam match at Wimbledon.
"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 the US Open is buzzing with other headline stories. Notably, Serena Williams surprised fans by partnering with rising star Carlos Alcaraz for a mixed‑doubles entry, generating widespread discussion across social media and sports outlets.
When asked whether he might follow Williams' example and come out of 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." For viewers eager to catch every moment, Sky Sports offers multiple ways to watch.
The match will be streamed live on the Sky Sports Main Event channel, and those without a traditional Sky subscription can access the broadcast via Sky Sports' streaming service, which requires no long‑term contract. The network also encourages fans to use the Chrome browser for optimal video playback, ensuring a smoother viewing experience. Beyond the exhibition itself, the US Open weekend will feature a full slate of matches, scores, and highlights across all categories.
Tennis enthusiasts can stay updated with real‑time results, in‑depth analysis, and player interviews through the tournament’s official platforms and partner sites. Additionally, a comprehensive A‑Z guide to tennis terminology is available for newcomers seeking to deepen their understanding of the sport’s nuances.
In summary, Roger Federer's return to Arthur Ashe Stadium, even in an exhibition capacity, marks a poignant moment in tennis history. It provides a platform for the Swiss maestro to reflect on his achievements, thank the New York fans, and share the court once more with fellow legends. Whether you are a die‑hard fan who has followed his career from his early days in Basel or a casual observer intrigued by the spectacle, this event promises a blend of nostalgia, skill, and the timeless charm that has defined Federer’s legacy. Tune in to Sky Sports Main Event at 1 a.m.
BST on Tuesday to witness "Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York" and celebrate the enduring impact of one of the game’s greatest ambassadors.