A Star-Studded Night at Melbourne Park

The Australian Open kicked off its first-ever formal opening ceremony with a bang, and it was clear who stole the spotlight. Roger Federer, the legendary Swiss tennis player, took center stage in a special exhibition match. He teamed up with past champions Andre Agassi and Ash Barty to face off against Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt. Federer's performance was nothing short of spectacular, winning the first point with a dramatic overhead smash. The event was packed with tennis greats and fans alike. Rod Laver, an Australian tennis icon, was in attendance, sitting courtside in the arena named after him. The crowd of 15, 000 cheered as Federer and his partners dominated the match. Even Novak Djokovic, the current tennis powerhouse, was there to watch, though he won't play until Monday.The ceremony wasn't just about tennis. Crowded House, a popular band, played a set of their biggest hits, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Australian Open organizers have big plans for the future, turning the 2026 edition into a three-week tennis festival. Last year's events drew massive crowds, with nearly 218, 000 fans attending over six days. Federer's return to Australia after a three-year hiatus was a highlight for many. He retired from competitive tennis before he could complete a farewell tour, making this appearance even more special. Federer expressed his gratitude to the legends who paved the way, especially Rod Laver, whom he affectionately calls "Rocket. " The main draw singles competitions begin on Sunday, setting the stage for an exciting tournament. With so many stars in attendance and a packed schedule of events, the Australian Open is shaping up to be a memorable one.