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All Eyes on Federer as Australian Open Debuts Formal Opening Ceremony
MELBOURNE, Australia — The Australian Open transformed into a celebration of tennis royalty on Saturday as Roger Federer took center stage during the tournament’s first formal opening ceremony.
A capacity crowd of 15,000 spectators packed Rod Laver Arena to witness the Swiss maestro’s return to Melbourne Park, creating an electric atmosphere for the eve of the season’s first Grand Slam tournament.
The festivities featured Australian rock band Crowded House performing a four-song set that energized the audience. Adding to the evening’s significance was the presence of Australian tennis legend Rod Laver, the 87-year-old Grand Slam champion for whom the center court is named, watching proceedings from his courtside seat.
Federer, who claimed six Australian Open titles among his 20 Grand Slam championships, headlined the event by participating in an exhibition doubles match. The retired star partnered with former champions Andre Agassi and then Ash Barty against Australian tennis icons Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt.
The exhibition followed the perfect script for the adoring crowd, with Federer winning the first point despite framing a forehand, and later sealing victory with a dramatic leaping overhead winner that showcased flashes of his trademark elegance.
“It really truly means so much to me when people like Rocket (Laver) show up,” Federer said during the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of honoring tennis history. “It’s super important to be grateful” to earlier generations of stars.
Among those in attendance was Novak Djokovic, the tournament’s most successful male player with ten Australian Open titles among his record 24 major championships. The Serbian star, who begins his campaign on Monday, appeared to enjoy watching his longtime rival back on the Melbourne court.
This marks Federer’s first visit to Australia since 2021. Having retired from competitive tennis in September 2022 without the opportunity for a farewell tour, this appearance provided Australian fans a chance to bid adieu to one of the sport’s most beloved figures.
Tournament organizers have expanded the 2024 Australian Open into a three-week tennis festival, introducing several innovations to engage fans before main draw competition begins. The strategy has proven successful, with 217,999 spectators attending across six days to watch exhibition matches, qualifying rounds, and the novel “1 Point Slam” format.
The expanded program represents Tennis Australia’s efforts to evolve the tournament experience beyond traditional competition, creating more opportunities for fans to interact with the sport and its stars. Similar initiatives have been implemented at other Grand Slam events as tennis continues adapting to changing entertainment landscapes.
The main draw singles competitions begin Sunday, kicking off two weeks of action as the world’s top players compete for the year’s first Grand Slam title. With defending champions Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka looking to retain their crowns against formidable challengers, the tournament promises to deliver the high-stakes drama that follows the celebration of Federer’s legacy.
The opening ceremony showcased the unique position the Australian Open holds as both the calendar year’s first major championship and a celebration of tennis heritage. By bringing together legends of different eras alongside current stars, organizers created a bridge between the sport’s past and future, setting an appropriate tone for the fortnight of competition ahead.
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10 Comments
An exhibition match with that caliber of players must have been a real treat for the fans. Federer, Agassi, Barty – what a lineup. Curious to see how the actual tournament plays out with the new generation of talent.
Agreed, the exhibition sounds like it had a great mix of past and present champions. Should give fans a taste of what’s to come in the tournament itself.
The Aussie Open opening ceremony sounds like it struck the perfect balance – honoring legends like Laver and Federer while also showcasing the current stars and energy of the tournament. Tennis knows how to put on a show.
Federer stealing the show at the Aussie Open opening is no surprise. He’s a true ambassador for the sport and it’s great to see the fans still adore him. Having Laver and other legends there too adds to the special occasion.
Always good to see tennis legends like Federer getting the recognition they deserve. Even in retirement, he’s still a huge draw and ambassador for the sport. Kudos to the Aussie Open organizers for putting on such a special opening ceremony.
Glad to see Federer back in Melbourne for the Aussie Open opening ceremony. Always a class act and fan favorite. Can’t wait to see him back on court someday, even if just for an exhibition match.
I wonder if Federer will make any appearance or commentary during the tournament itself. Even though he’s retired, his presence and insights would be invaluable. Hopefully we get to see him interact with the current crop of players.
Good point. Federer’s involvement as a commentator or mentor would be a huge draw for fans and players alike. His perspective and experience are unmatched in the sport.
An exhibition match with Federer, Agassi, Barty, Rafter and Hewitt – what a lineup! Must have been an electrifying atmosphere in the stadium. Love how tennis pays tribute to its icons and history at these events.
Federer and the other icons must have loved being back on court, even if just for an exhibition. Tennis has such a rich history and tradition, and events like this help celebrate that legacy. Can’t wait to see how the tournament unfolds.