Tennis legend Roger Federer recently captivated fans by making an unanticipated return to the Australian Open. His presence sparked widespread excitement as he participated in an exhibition match and engaged in a spirited practice tiebreak against current world number 13, Casper Ruud. This return to the iconic courts, years after his last professional appearance at the tournament, showcased his enduring talent and connection with the sport. Meanwhile, Ruud's early season struggles on the ATP Tour highlight the unpredictable nature of professional tennis and set the stage for his upcoming first-round match against a new opponent, Mattia Bellucci.
Federer's Grand Return and On-Court Mastery
Roger Federer, the celebrated Swiss tennis maestro, recently graced the Australian Open, not as a competitor in the main draw, but as a distinguished participant in an exhibition match. This special event, held during the opening ceremony, featured an illustrious lineup of tennis legends including Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt, and Patrick Rafter. Federer's appearance was met with immense enthusiasm, offering fans a rare opportunity to witness his legendary presence on the court once again. Beyond the exhibition, he engaged in a captivating practice session with Norway's Casper Ruud, showcasing his enduring skill and competitive spirit.
During his return, the six-time Australian Open champion demonstrated that his touch and competitive fire remain undiminished. He engaged in a tiebreak on the hallowed Rod Laver Arena against Casper Ruud, a match that saw the 44-year-old triumph with a score of 7-2. This victory in front of an eager crowd underscored his lasting prowess and delighted spectators. Ruud himself acknowledged the special occasion, sharing a photo with Federer on Instagram and playfully remarking, "Best practice partner in a while." This moment served as a poignant reminder of Federer's last tour-level match at the Australian Open in 2020, where he reached the semifinals before falling to his longtime rival, Novak Djokovic, two years prior to his retirement from professional tennis.
Casper Ruud's Season Start and Tournament Prospects
Casper Ruud, currently ranked 13th globally, has faced a challenging commencement to his 2026 ATP Tour season. His early campaign has been marked by inconsistency, recording one win against two losses. While he secured a notable victory over Alex de Minaur at the United Cup, he subsequently experienced defeats, including a loss to Jakub Mensik during Norway's tie with Czechia. This mixed start indicates a period of adjustment for the talented Norwegian as he navigates the demands of the new season and seeks to regain his peak form.
The challenges continued for Ruud at the ASB Classic, where his tournament journey ended prematurely with a straight-sets loss to Fabian Marozsan in his opening match. This early exit highlights the competitive depth of the professional circuit and the constant pressure on players to perform at their best. As he prepares for the Australian Open, Ruud will be looking to reverse his fortunes. His first opponent in the main draw will be Mattia Bellucci, an unfamiliar rival whom he has never previously encountered on the tour. This unchartered matchup presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Ruud as he aims to kickstart his Grand Slam campaign with a strong performance and build momentum for the remainder of the season.