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Roger Federer to Headline Australian Open's First Opening Ceremony on January 17

The event serves as a long‑overdue Melbourne farewell to the six‑time champion.

Overview

  • Organisers confirmed a 'Battle of the World No.1s' exhibition with Federer joined by Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt on Rod Laver Arena.
  • The ceremony will be staged the night before main‑draw play begins at the 2026 Australian Open.
  • Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster, with prices reported to start at $149.
  • Federer teased his return in a light‑hearted social video, his first scheduled Rod Laver Arena appearance since retiring in 2022 after last competing there in 2020.
  • Tournament director Craig Tiley described the night as a new launch tradition and a tribute to one of the event’s most decorated champions.