Australian Open Inaugural Ceremony
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The Australian Open kicked off its inaugural formal opening ceremony with a spotlight on tennis icon Roger Federer. The event attracted a full audience to the 15,000-capacity Rod Laver Arena, where the renowned band Crowded House delivered an energetic performance, playing a set of four popular songs.
Notable Attendees
Among the notable attendees was Rod Laver himself, the legendary Australian player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. At 87 years old, Laver was present at the center court named in his honor.
Federer’s Exhibition Match
Federer, celebrated for his six Australian Open titles and 20 Grand Slam victories, participated in a highlight exhibition doubles match, teaming up with former champions Andre Agassi and Ash Barty. They faced off against fellow Australian legends Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt, providing fans with a thrilling match that followed a script of nostalgia and excitement. Federer initially struggled with a forehand but quickly redeemed himself, clinching the game with an impressive leaping overhead shot.
Other Tennis Titans
Novak Djokovic, another titan of tennis with 10 titles at the Australian Open and a staggering 24 Grand Slam wins, was also in attendance, watching the festivities unfold.
Looking Ahead
As the excitement builds, the Australian Open’s main singles draw will commence on Sunday, with Djokovic slated to play his first match on Monday. Looking ahead, the tournament organizers have transformed the 2026 edition into an extended three-week celebration, successfully drawing in close to 218,000 spectators over six days for exhibitions, qualifying rounds, and the unique 1 Point Slam event prior to the main competition beginning.
Federer’s Reflection
This gathering marked Federer’s return to Australia after a two-year absence, following his retirement from competitive tennis, which prevented him from embarking on a farewell tour. Reflecting on the occasion, Federer expressed deep appreciation for the presence of past legends like Laver, underscoring the importance of honoring those who paved the way for future generations in tennis.
