Roger Federer Returns to Wimbledon: Grass Court Exhibition Confirmed

Newport, RI – Roger Federer, the 20-time Grand Slam champion, is set to return to grass for the first time since his retirement from professional tennis, confirmed by the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The exhibition match will take place on August 28 at the Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic presented by Fidelity Investments in Newport, Rhode Island.

Federer’s last competitive match on grass was at Wimbledon in 2021, where he reached the quarter-finals before losing to Hubert Hurkacz. His retirement at the 2022 Laver Cup marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned over two decades, during which he amassed 103 career titles, including a record eight Wimbledon championships. The upcoming exhibition will be his first time performing in front of a live crowd since that retirement.

The announcement follows a successful return to the Australian Open, which evidently spurred further interest from organizers seeking to feature the Swiss legend. While details surrounding the format of the match remain limited, the Hall of Fame event promises a unique opportunity for fans to witness Federer’s signature style – particularly his renowned backhand slice and volleying prowess – one last time.

Federer’s connection to the sport extends beyond his on-court achievements. He has consistently expressed a desire to remain involved in tennis and to connect with fans worldwide. He previously participated in an exhibition match in Shanghai in October 2024, and confirmed another appearance in Shanghai in an exhibition doubles match earlier this year. His willingness to participate in these events underscores his enduring passion for the game and his appreciation for the support he has received throughout his career.

The Hall of Fame event will also feature other notable figures. Federer will team up with Hong Kong-American actor and filmmaker Donnie Yen, while Chinese actor Wu Lei and former Chinese tennis player Zheng Jie will form the opposing duo. This celebrity pairing adds an extra layer of entertainment value to the exhibition, attracting a broader audience beyond dedicated tennis fans.

Federer’s return to grass holds particular significance given his dominance on the surface. His eight Wimbledon titles represent a testament to his skill and adaptability on the unique playing characteristics of grass courts. The surface historically favored his aggressive serve-and-volley style, allowing him to dictate play and finish points with precision. The opportunity to see him replicate those skills, even in an exhibition setting, is a compelling draw for tennis enthusiasts.

The 44-year-old Federer has maintained strong ties to China, having been involved in the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympics and making several visits to the country since his professional retirement. This connection highlights his global appeal and his commitment to promoting the sport in emerging markets.

While the Shanghai Masters ATP 1000 event is currently underway, with top players like Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev still in contention, the focus will inevitably shift towards Federer’s upcoming appearance at the Hall of Fame. The tournament has already seen withdrawals from US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz and Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner due to injury, adding a layer of unpredictability to the event.

Federer himself has expressed a desire to “fill stadiums again,” indicating his eagerness to reconnect with fans and experience the energy of a live audience. This exhibition match provides the perfect platform for him to do so, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the brilliance that defined his career. Tickets for the event start at $90 and include access to the matches, Fame Fest, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame museum.

The return to the court, even in an exhibition capacity, signals a continued engagement with the sport for Federer. It’s a testament to his enduring love for tennis and a gift to fans who have cherished his artistry for years. The event in Newport promises to be a memorable occasion, celebrating the legacy of one of the greatest players in tennis history.