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Casper Ruud responds on social media after losing to Roger Federer in Australian Open practise
Photo by Shi Tang/Getty Images

Casper Ruud responds on social media after losing to Roger Federer in Australian Open practise

Originally posted on HITC  |  By Cameron Greenlees  |  Last updated Jan 16, 2026 5:00 PM ET

Roger Federer made his return to the Australian Open this week.

The Swiss legend is set to feature in an exhibition match alongside ATP legends Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt and Patrick Rafter during the opening ceremony, which takes place on the 17th of January, the day before the main draw begins.

Ahead of the match, Federer, a six-time Australian Open champion, took to the practice courts with world number 13 Casper Ruud.

The two played a tiebreak on Rod Laver Arena, which ultimately went the way of the 44-year-old.


Photo by Shi Tang/Getty Images

Roger Federer beats Casper Ruud in a practice tiebreak

Federer defeated Ruud in the shootout 7-2 in front of a packed crowd, proving he has still got it.

In a post on Instagram after the session, the Norwegian uploaded a photo of the two standing together with the caption: “Best practice partner in a while.”

Federer’s last tour-level clash at the Australian Open came back in 2020, two years before he retired from tennis.

That year, he reached the semifinals at the first Grand Slam of the year, but fell to longtime rival Novak Djokovic.


Photo by James D. Morgan/Getty Images

Casper Ruud’s first opponent at the Australian Open

Ruud has endured a poor start to his 2026 season on the ATP Tour, having begun his campaign with one win and two losses.

He picked up a victory at the United Cup against Alex de Minaur, but was beaten by Jakub Mensik in Norway’s tie with Czechia.

Then, at the ASB Classic, he crashed out of the tournament in his opening match versus Fabian Marozsan, falling to the Hungarian in straight sets.

Ruud’s first opponent will come in the form of Mattia Bellucci, whom he has never faced before on the tour.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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