Roger Federer praises the emerging rivalry between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as he returns to the Australian Open for the first time since his retirement in 2022. Federer, a six-time champion, will headline the opening ceremony with a doubles exhibition match alongside Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt.
Federer, who last visited Australia in 2020, expressed his admiration for the young players' dominance in the sport. "The rivalry with Alcaraz and Sinner is a great one," he said. "They play incredible tennis. I think the French Open final was unreal. It was a fantastic addition to the game."
The Swiss legend continued, "They've backed it up by playing against each other in multiple finals. It's inspiring to see their progression. I've practiced with them, and they're exceptional ball strikers. I hope they stay injury-free."
Alcaraz, the men's No. 1, is set to face Adam Walton in the first round at Melbourne Park. Sinner, the second seed, will begin his title defense against Hugo Gaston. The question remains whether any challenger can challenge these top players.
Alcaraz, aiming for a career Grand Slam at 22, has yet to advance past the quarter-final stage at the Australian Open. Sinner, seeking his third consecutive Melbourne title, starts against Hugo Gaston. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic, the fourth seed, will face Pedro Martinez in the first round, aiming for his 11th Australian Open title.
The women's draw is equally intense. Iga Świątek, the No. 2 seed, seeks her career Grand Slam with a seventh major. She'll face a qualifier in the first round but has a challenging path, potentially meeting Naomi Osaka, Elena Rybakina, and Amanda Anisimova in consecutive rounds. Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, aims for her third Australian Open title, starting against Sarah Rakotomang Rajaonah.
