Roger Federer steals the show at Australian Open's first opening ceremony
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- The Australian Open held its first formal opening ceremony featuring a packed 15,000-seat stadium and a performance by Crowded House.
- Tennis legend Roger Federer participated in an exhibition doubles match alongside Andre Agassi and Ash Barty, securing a victory with a memorable overhead winner.
- Rod Laver, the 87-year-old Australian tennis icon, attended courtside, highlighting the event's significance and connection to past generations.
- Novak Djokovic, a 10-time Australian Open champion, was present as a spectator and is scheduled to play his first-round match on Monday.
- The 2026 Australian Open was expanded into a three-week festival attracting over 217,000 fans, with Federer returning to Australia for the first time since
