Roger Federer has made a triumphant return to Melbourne Park, stepping onto the courts at the Australian Open for the first time since 2020.
The Swiss maestro, now 44, hung up his racquet professionally in 2022 but demonstrated he still possesses considerable skill during a practice session with world number 13 Casper Ruud.
The 20-time major winner comfortably dispatched the Norwegian in a tiebreak, prevailing 7-2.
Spectators were treated to vintage Federer when he unleashed his celebrated one-handed backhand down the line, converting a return winner off Ruud's serve in what proved the standout moment of their hit.
The eight-time Wimbledon champion will take centre stage at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday evening for a special exhibition contest.
Federer is set to share the court with three fellow former world number ones in what promises to be a nostalgic affair for tennis enthusiasts.
American legend Andre Agassi, Australian duo Patrick Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt will join the Swiss icon for the showcase event.
Roger Federer has made a triumphant return to Melbourne Park, stepping onto the courts at the Australian Open for the first time since 2020
|GETTY
The gathering of four players who have collectively dominated the sport across different eras represents a rare treat for Melbourne crowds, bringing together champions who have amassed numerous Grand Slam titles between them.
Speaking at a press conference in Melbourne, Federer revealed that his four children have become his main focus since stepping away from professional competition.
"I'm super still active, busy, doing loads of sports. Tennis is part of that," Federer said.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Oh, Roger 😍
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2026
That backhand down the line will never get old 💫 pic.twitter.com/FAD8yOiQi9
The Swiss star acknowledged he still handles a racquet frequently but has scaled back his personal training significantly.
"I feel like I hold the racquet a lot. Do I train a lot myself? No, not at all. I still feel like I play quite a lot of tennis," he explained.
The tennis icon also noted this limited preparation is why he has avoided singles competition, suggesting Rafter likely shares similar sentiments about doubles being more manageable.
Federer's final competitive singles appearance came in 2021 when he suffered defeat to Hubert Hurkacz at Wimbledon, bringing the curtain down on his remarkable career at the All England Club following multiple knee operations.
Five facts for tennis fans | GETTY/PAThe 27-year-old Ruud, a three-time grand slam finalist, appeared delighted by the opportunity to share the practice court with the legendary Swiss.
The Norwegian took to social media following their session to express his appreciation.
"Best practice partner in a while," Ruud posted, capturing the sentiment of tennis fans worldwide who witnessed Federer's return to one of his most successful hunting grounds.
Whether the Swiss star can reign supreme once again remains to be seen.