Roger Federer responds to Australian Open wild card talk after Casper Ruud win

Federer was asked if he’d consider coming out of retirement and accepting a wild card into the Australian Open.

“No, no, no, no,” said Federer. “I’m not here to play, my calf is twitchy, the body is not ready, the mind is not ready.

“I’m just loving Melbourne for what it is. It’s just nice to come back down here after so many years and just have fun.

“My family came too, parents came too. So it’s a trip down memory lane, a bit of nostalgia for us.

“Have had so many great moments and great years here. Came here since 1998 for the juniors, every year pretty much until I retired six years ago here on this court against Novak [Djokovic], but it’s just so nice to be back down in Australia.”

The 20-time Grand Slam champion won’t play singles at the 2025 Australian Open but will feature in an exhibition doubles match on January 17th at Rod Laver Arena alongside Andre Agassi, Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt.

Roger Federer recalls favourite tennis moments in Australia

Federer was also asked to reflect on some of his favourite memories from playing in Australia. “Yes, I have many to choose from, which is a wonderful problem to have,” he said.

“I guess the 2017 [Rafael] Nadal final, how can we forget that one? One of the most special matches in my life.”

The 2017 Australian Open was an incredible time for Federer. He had gone over four years without winning a Grand Slam title before going on a brilliant run at age 35.

It ended with an epic five-set win over Nadal in front of an adoring Rod Laver Arena crowd.

That win came after Federer had dropped to as low as number 16 in the world rankings following knee surgery and a six-month break from the sport.

It was not just another major victory; it marked an emotional return to the very top of tennis after injury and time away from the game, making it one of Federer’s most memorable moments on the court.

Who has more Australian Open titles than Roger Federer?

Roger Federer may have six Australian Open titles to his name, but that’s still not enough for the top spot.

Novak Djokovic, Margaret Court, and Serena Williams have all won more than him. Federer shares fourth place with Roy Emerson and Nancye Wynne Bolton.

It’s possible that some of today’s players could break into the top ranks soon. Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner, both two-time champions, will be favourites heading into the 2026 event.