Roger Federer Rules Out Tennis Comeback After US Open Exhibition

Tennis legend Roger Federer has ruled out a return to professional tennis despite making a highly anticipated appearance at the US Open in an exhibition event.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion returned to Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York for an exhibition featuring several former tennis greats. Federer, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, said his appearance was intended as a farewell to fans rather than the beginning of a competitive comeback.

Asked whether he would consider returning to professional competition, Federer firmly ruled out the possibility.

The Swiss star explained that there were too many obstacles to making a comeback, including the demands of re-entering the anti-doping programme and the physical requirements of competing on the professional tour.

Federer also acknowledged that his body could no longer withstand the demands of a full competitive schedule, although he remains satisfied with his current physical condition and enjoys following tennis as a fan.

The former world number one admitted that returning to the court after a lengthy absence was nerve-racking, saying he had not played a full competitive set for several years.

However, he expressed happiness at being back at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where he produced some of the most memorable performances of his illustrious career.

Federer won five consecutive US Open titles between 2004 and 2008, establishing himself as one of the tournament’s most successful players. His final appearance at the tournament came in 2019, when he reached the quarter-finals.

His final Grand Slam appearance was at Wimbledon in 2021, after which persistent knee problems made it increasingly difficult for him to compete at the highest level.

Federer eventually announced his retirement in 2022 and played his final professional match at the Laver Cup in London alongside longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal.

Since retirement, Federer has remained involved in tennis through exhibitions, appearances and other activities while focusing on his family and business interests.

His return to New York for the US Open exhibition gave fans an opportunity to celebrate one of the sport’s greatest careers, but he made clear that a return to competitive tennis is not on the cards.

Federer’s legacy includes 20 Grand Slam singles titles, 103 ATP singles titles and 310 weeks as world number one, cementing his place among tennis’ all-time greats.