Melbourne, Jan 17 (NationPress) On Saturday night during the Australian Open, Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt, Patrick Rafter, and Ashleigh Barty captivated the audience with a spirited exhibition doubles match as part of the opening ceremony, sharing plenty of laughter.

Federer made his way to Melbourne on Thursday morning, receiving a heartfelt welcome from fans. The tennis legend later discussed the Alcaraz and Sinner rivalry, which has become a significant narrative in tennis history akin to the famous Federer vs. Nadal matches. The six-time Australian Open victor took part in the Grand Slam’s inaugural ceremony, engaging in a special 'Battle of the World No. 1s' game on Saturday.

As the lights lit up Rod Laver Arena, the audience hushed when the four ATP No. 1 Club members entered the court, only to erupt once again when Rod Laver appeared for the coin toss.

Federer, a six-time champion at the Australian Open, instantly set a welcoming atmosphere for the evening, addressing the crowd as if he had never been away. “I have missed you all, and it’s wonderful to be back. It feels just like before, filled with so many memories and it’s delightful to dive back into it,” reported ATP.

Hewitt was already bouncing with excitement, Rafter appeared at ease, while Agassi calmly surveyed the arena before the match commenced.

Hewitt kicked off the match with a serve, prompting an enthusiastic cheer from the crowd. Federer executed a forehand lob that, despite a mis-hit, unexpectedly landed as a winner over Rafter, causing laughter among all four players, while Hewitt shook his head in disbelief.

As the match unfolded, their different playing styles were on full display. Agassi humorously remarked about staying back behind the baseline, while Rafter aimed to avoid forehands at all costs. In a first-to-four format, the initial two sets passed quickly, with scores at 4-2 and 2-4, resulting in the Australians clinching the first set.

With a third set left to declare the winner, Barty entered the court to replace Agassi. The former World No. 1, who triumphed at the Australian Open in 2022 before her retirement, was met with thunderous applause upon her return. Barty quickly found her groove from the baseline, and together with Federer, they secured a 4-2 victory in the final set, in front of a record attendance that included champion Novak Djokovic watching from the sidelines.

“It was beautiful. It was absolutely fantastic. I couldn’t be happier. Being back in Melbourne with my friends, legends, and rivals is always thrilling. As a big historian of the game, I reflect on those who have paved the way for us, and this is a memorable moment for tennis. I’m really looking forward to the Australian Open,” Federer remarked following the match.

Agassi has claimed the Australian Open title four times, while Hewitt reached the finals in 2005. Rafter’s peak performance was reaching the semi-finals in 2001. The Australian Open officially kicks off on Sunday, featuring Carlos Alcaraz, with Jannik Sinner as the two-time defending champion.