Tennis News: Former world number 1 Roger Federer returns to the US Open this week for an unforgettable night of exhibition matches.
The former tennis player, who has 20 Grand Slam titles and is retiring from professional tennis in the 2022 season, was greeted with thunderous applause at Arthur Ashe Stadium. He played a set against his former rival, Andy Roddick and the tennis maestro won 6-3. Then, he teamed up with John McEnroe to beat Andre Agassi and Roddick 7-5 in the doubles match.
“It’s great to be back in New York,” said Federer, who last competed at the US Open in 2019.
“It’s amazing. I have fond memories of this field, the fans here and the city. In the 2004 and 2005 seasons, that’s when it all started here, my love for New York grew thanks to the wins I achieved here.”
When the former tennis player who won the US Open five times (2004 – 2008) stepped into the largest tennis stadium in the world, he was greeted like a hero by the spectators who filled the arena in New York.
“I fell in love with the city and this court from day one,” added Federer. “As far as I remember, my first appearance on the main court was against Andre in the 2001 season. He beat me with a landslide score of 6-1, 6-2, 6-4. I didn’t have a chance at all. I thought, ‘Okay, it’s not that easy, don’t rush, Roger’ (laughs).”
An enthusiastic video, narrated by renowned actor Matthew McConaughey, was shown on the stadium’s big screen. A number of celebrities were also present, including Anna Wintour who did a coin toss before the match between Federer and Roddick started. Tennis stars such as Serena Williams, Felix Auger Aliassime, Casper Ruud and Alexandra Eala were among those who witnessed the action of the champion who has amassed 103 titles.
Federer, who turned 45 earlier this month, will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday (29/8). As one of 29 members of the exclusive ATP No. 1, he spent a total of 310 weeks as world number 1, including a record 237 consecutive weeks at the top.
Article Tag: roger federer, us open
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