Roger Federer is set to make a return to the tennis court in 2025, choosing the Shanghai Masters as the stage for his comeback. While not a return to competitive play, the Swiss legend will participate in a special celebrity doubles exhibition match during the tournament, which is scheduled to take place from October 1 to 12, 2025.
The exhibition match, titled “Roger & Friends,” will be held on October 10 and will see Federer team up with some unexpected yet exciting partners. He will share the court with martial arts actor Donnie Yen, popular Chinese actor Wu Lei, and former professional tennis player Zheng Jie, who once reached world No. 3 in doubles. This event promises to be a unique blend of sport and entertainment, designed to celebrate Federer’s enduring legacy and his strong bond with Chinese fans.
In a promotional video released ahead of the announcement, Federer shared his excitement, saying, “Hello, this is Roger, and I am really happy to be returning to Qizhong Stadium in Shanghai for the Rolex Shanghai Masters.” He continued, “Shanghai has always been a special place for me, with great fans, unforgettable memories, and a real love for the game.”
Although Federer officially retired in 2022, this marks the first time he will step onto a court in front of fans since then. Known for his deep connection with Shanghai—where he won titles in 2014 and 2017—his return to the city adds a deeply personal touch to the event. While the match won’t count towards any professional rankings, it will serve as a nostalgic and heartfelt moment for fans and Federer alike.
This appearance signals that while Federer may have left the professional tour, his presence in the sport continues to shine. The Shanghai Masters, already a major highlight on the tennis calendar, is sure to receive even more attention with Federer’s brief yet symbolic return.
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